- Helmets are good
- Helmets are bad
To be clear, riding a motorcycle is DANGEROUS. One common talking point related to motorcycle riding is the support or resistance towards a helmet law. The wind blowing through your hair, and sun on your face, and the bugs in your teeth. All things that some riders will say they enjoy.
In other posts, the dangers of riding a motorcycle and the factors for a rider wearing or not wearing a helmet are discussed
/https://midlifemotoz.com/2018/04/07/protecting-your-most-valuable-asset-check-your-helmet-month/
Another state however, is looking to modify its current helmet law. Connecticut is currently taking up legislation to require helmets. Digging into CT, anyone under 18 is required to wear a helmet.
Unfortunately, there is no denying helmets help save lives and reduce the likelihood of devastating physical disability as a result of you knocking your noggin on the bumper of that soccer mom’s van. Even with this awareness, the freedom loving and heritage embracing motorcyclists will scream and shout that everyone should “have the right to choose” to wear one or not.
The United Sates of Reality
The reality is, only a couple of states in the US lack a formal helmet law. Iowa and Illinois do not have restrictive laws. However, the rest include either requirements for younger riders or all riders. Check out this law firms site for a map :https://www.edgarsnyder.com/motorcycle-accidents/state-helmet-laws/#connecticut
As we continue to move towards better technology, better comfort, and better performing bikes, we’ll continue to see more riders coming on board with helmet use. Moreover, modern helmets are lighter, offer greater comfort, and some even include technology integration such as Bluetooth and rear view camera.
With he majority of news stories on motorcycles involving deaths and accidents, having a story about a positive step towards safety cant be a bad thing…or can it?
What are your thoughts on helmet use and law? YES —HELL NO
Head injuries from improper or non-existent helmet use is ammunition that can be used to further stigmatize our sport. Yes, riding can potentially have more negative consequences than driving a car, but it’s also possible to mitigate lethal (or life-altering disfigurement) by gearing up. I want to see our sport grow, not continue to atrophe behind a wall of fear built by negative press and weak excuses for not staying safe.
Fin