Motorcycle helmet of the future

The Motorcycle Helmet of the Future?

Los Angeles, California (PRWEB) June 25, 2013

Highways are arguably safer than they’ve ever been. Vehicle to Vehicle Communication, self-driving cars, and pedestrian airbags are all on the way, and the NHTSA continues to update safety guidelines to reflect progress.

Nevertheless, technology and the law have not always kept up with motorcyclists. Although Antilock Brake Systems are more common, they’re not yet mandatory, and states like Michigan and Florida have struck down mandatory helmet laws despite the impact on safety.

Enter the LiveMap motorcycle helmet system currently seeking funding on the Indiegogo web platform. Developed in Russia, the helmet purports to offer voice activation and a stream of GPS-based navigation information directly to a visor display, the thought being that such readily accessible environmental details will strengthen safety. With connectivity and interactivity now the rage, perhaps former helmet adopters could be lured back despite the estimated $1,500 pre-order price tag.

The Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers of the Nagelberg Bernard Law Group applaud efforts like these to promote safety. Firm partner Larry Nagelberg, himself an avid motorcyclist, remains cautiously optimistic that this system and others like it will catch on.

“Not only have I seen the fallout from high-speed motorcycle collisions,” explained Mr. Nagelberg, “but I’ve seen the numbers both before and after the repeal of motorcycle helmet laws. The developers behind the LiveMap system should be commended if for nothing else than attempting to put out a product that could get more riders interested in ensuring their own safety from cranial damage.”

But the LiveMap won’t arrive until August 2014 at the least, and there could be numerousCalifornia motorcycle accidents between then and now. Mr. Nagelberg has some suggestions to encourage safety in the meantime.

•Wear a Helmet- This should seem obvious, but far too many people neglect to put on helmets. Some say it limits their view, others may have a misbegotten notion that doing so harms their credibility as a motorcyclist. As a personal injury lawyer, Larry Nagelberg has represented the victims of accidents who did and did not wear a helmet. The contrast is stark enough that Mr. Nagelberg now wears a helmet every trip he takes.

•Adopt (and keep) Helmet Laws- States have been getting rid of their helmet laws in recent years, with Michigan being but the latest example. Not only does this lead more people to remove their helmets, but new research from the Highway Loss Data Institute has shown that it also leads to an increase in fatalities, traumatic brain injuries, and insurance claims. States must continue to mandate helmet use.

•Investment in Technology- The LiveMap shows us that there’s always room for improvement to the current product. ABS and full-body airbags might be imminent, but progress is such that technology developers shouldn’t rest on their laurels until the threat of a fatality is all but eliminated.

•Incentivized Adoption- A $1,500 price tag could turn off most buyers, but systems like the LiveMap can become more widespread if insurance companies and lawmakers offer financial incentives to persons who adopt such technology. If someone is willing to take such a major leap for safety, they should be rewarded for their commitment.

Whether LiveMap becomes as commonplace as Coke or as misguided as New Coke, we should always cast a light on and look out for the latest developments in motorcycle safety technology.

The Nagelberg Bernard Law Group represents the victims of motorcycle accidents whether they choose to wear a helmet or go without. For more than 30 years, they have seen what happens when inattentive drivers fail to respect the rights of riders, and they fight for those victimized in such accidents. Their efforts have helped secure more than $400 million in compensation for clients. Visit our site to learn how NB law is attempting to make California roadways safer for all who travel.

Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/6/prweb10852267.htm

Read more: http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/1325423#ixzz2XNSBJhfr

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