You have seen them, the motorcyclists without helmets. Maybe you are one of them. You might think that it is not necessary to wear a helmet because you are just going to be driving around town. Or, maybe you do not like the way they feel or look. Whatever your reason may be, here are four reasons why you should reconsider wearing a motorcycle helmet.
Traumatic Brain Injury
Motorcycle helmet laws vary from state to state, but in most cases, wearing a helmet is required by law. In some states, only riders under 18 are required to wear a helmet, while in others, all are required to do so. While there is some debate about the efficacy of helmet laws, the truth is that wearing a helmet can save your life. A motorcycle helmet is designed to protect your head in the event of a crash and can significantly reduce the severity of a traumatic brain injury. Studies have shown that motorcycle riders who wear helmets are much less likely to die from a head injury than those who do not. So if you ride a motorcycle, wear a helmet – it could save your life.
Neck And Spinal Injuries
Research has consistently shown that wearing a motorcycle helmet can significantly reduce the risk of sustaining a neck or spinal injury in the event of an accident. While helmets cannot prevent all injuries, they are remarkably effective at protecting riders from the most severe and fatal injuries. And while some riders may feel that helmets inhibit their freedom or obscure their vision, the reality is that modern helmets are both light and comfortable and provide riders with a clear field of view. In the end, wearing a helmet is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve motorcycle safety.
Concussion
A concussion is a brain injury that can occur when your head hits an object, or you experience a sudden jolt or blow. Concussions can range from mild to severe, and they can cause a variety of symptoms, including headache, dizziness, nausea, and difficulty concentrating. While concussions are typically not life-threatening, they can significantly impact your health and well-being. Wearing a motorcycle helmet can help to protect you from a concussion in the event of an accident. Helmets are designed to absorb the collision’s impact and distribute the force over a larger area of your head, reducing the risk of a concussion. In addition, helmets can also protect you from other serious injuries, such as skull fractures and brain bleeds. While no one wants to be involved in a motorcycle accident, wearing a helmet can help ensure you come out of it unscathed.
Death
A motorcycle helmet is more than just a piece of safety equipment, it is the difference between life and death in the event of an accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, helmets saved the lives of 1,872 motorcycle riders in 2021. That same year, helmets prevented an estimated 37 percent of motorcycle fatalities. In addition to protecting your head from impact, a helmet can also help to protect your face and eyes from debris. And while no helmet can guarantee your safety, wearing one dramatically increases your chances of surviving a motorcycle crash. So if you are planning on hitting the open road this summer, strap on a helmet first. It could very well save your life.
Finally, motorcyclists should wear helmets as they protect the head in the event of a crash. It does not matter whether they are required by law; you should wear them as they can help prevent long-term injuries.
