5 Reasons to Wear a Motorcycle Helmet
Motorcycle helmets are more than just accessories; they are vital safety gear that could mean the difference between life and death. Despite compelling evidence supporting the effectiveness of motorcycle helmets, some riders still choose to forgo wearing them. This blog delves into why some riders choose to not wear a helmet, and presents five considerations to think about when it comes to choosing to wear one.
Why Do Some Motorcycle Riders Choose Not to Wear Helmets?
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Discomfort: Some riders find helmets hot, heavy, or claustrophobic, especially in warmer climates.
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Impaired Senses: There's a belief that helmets can limit peripheral vision or muffle important sounds, potentially increasing the risk of an accident.
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Personal Freedom: In regions without universal helmet laws, some riders view helmet use as a personal choice and resist mandates.
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Short Trips: Riders may skip helmets for brief rides, underestimating, or disregarding the risks involved even in short distances.
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Appearance: Some motorcycle riders feel helmets detract from their style or the experience of riding.
Five Reasons to Wear a Motorcycle Helmet:
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Significant Reduction in Fatalities: Wearing a helmet drastically decreases the likelihood of death in a motorcycle crash. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that helmets are 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle operators and 41% effective for passengers.(1)
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Prevention of Traumatic Brain Injuries: Helmets are 67% effective in preventing brain injuries during crashes. Riders without helmets are three times more likely to suffer brain injuries compared to those wearing them.(2)
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Protection Against Facial Injuries: Full-face helmets offer comprehensive protection, safeguarding the face and jaw form severe injuries in the event of an accident. They also shield against debris, weather, and flying insects during rides.(3) (see all our full-face motorcycle helmets)
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Enhanced Visibility and Communication: Modern helmets often come equipped with features like anti-fog visors, integrated communication systems, and reflective materials, enhancing rider visibility and the ability to communicate, thereby improving overall safety. (see our motorcycle communication options)
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Economic Benefits: Wearing a helmet can lead to lower medical expenses in the event of an accident. Additionally, some insurance companies offer discounts to riders who consistently use helmets, recognizing the reduced risk.
Statistical Evidence Supporting Helmet Use:
Data consistently shows the life-saving benefits of helmet use:
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In 2023, 6,335 motorcyclists were killed in the U.S., accounting for 15% of all traffic fatalities.(4)
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The insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) estimates that from 1976 to 2022, approximately 22,058 motorcyclists' lives could have been saved if all states had implemented universal helmet laws.(5)
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Helmet use is significantly higher in states with mandatory helmet laws, correlating with lower fatality rates.(6)
Conclusion:
While personal preferences and perceptions influence helmet use, the evidence underscores the critical role helmets play in ensuring rider safety. Embracing helmet use not only protects individual riders but their passengers as well.
Ultimately, it's up to you. And if you choose to wear a helmet while you ride, make sure your helmet is D.O.T. approved and is in good shape, ready to protect you as intended. Newer helmets are often lighter than they used to be and have many more features than helmets from years past. On top of the comfort, wearability and usability of new helmets, styles have improved as well. And let's face it, part of riding is looking good while you do it.
Are you ready for a new helmet? Twisty Rider has multiple styles and options available.
Shop all our motorcycle helmets and helmet accessories at TwistyRider.com.
Be safe out there - and Ride On!
References:
1 - Injury Facts
2 - NHTSA
3 - Wikipedia
4 - NHTSA
5 - AP News
6 - AP News