The short answer is yes. According to Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, motorcycle helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 69% and reduce the risk of death by 42%.
While these numbers may not seem significant, they become more impactful when you consider the following statistic:
For every mile driven, a motorcyclist is 28 times more likely to be killed than the driver of a passenger vehicle.
Motorcycle fatalities are so high that many states require the use of motorcycle helmets. In Idaho, however, only riders under 18 years of age are required to wear helmets. Adult motorcyclists are allowed to take their safety into their own hands.
Still, organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety agree: Helmets work.
They do so by decreasing the likelihood of death and brain injuries during motorcycle crashes.
If you learn nothing else from our blog, please remember to always wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle.
If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, our attorneys can help you recover.
If you are killed, we can pursue justice on behalf of your family, but your life can never, ever be replaced by a number – no matter how high.
Arguments Against Helmets
Most experts agree that helmets that meet federal performance standards are useful. However, some people claim that helmets increase the risk of neck and spinal injury or reduce peripheral vision and hearing.
The above claims are myths and they’re some of many unproven claims used by motorcyclists to justify riding without helmets. In fact, studies have refuted the claim that helmets cause neck injuries.
I Wore a Helmet. Now What?
If you survived a motorcycle accident, you are probably feeling overwhelmed by your injuries and medical bills. The good news is, you’re still alive! The better news is, our attorneys at May, Rammel & Wells can help with your concerns.
Most multi-vehicle motorcycle accidents are caused by the negligent behavior of another driver. By holding that driver accountable, we can recover damages on your behalf. This award will help you:
- Pay your medical bills
- Make up for missed work and wages
- Afford rehabilitative care
- Replace your motorcycle and get back on the road! (with a helmet, always)
To find out how we can help you get back to the hobby you love, call us at (208) 623-8021 or set up a consultation today.