Effectiveness of Helmets

Although the idea that helmets would help reduce injuries and deaths may seem obvious, proof needed to be demonstrated. In addition, the question of whether helmets themselves did not increase the risk of other unforeseen injury needed evaluation. Researchers into motorcycle safety took advantage of changes in state laws requiring helmets for all riders, regardless of age.

Studies examining the rates of brain injury and deaths before and after the passage of a mandatory helmet law showed a significant reduction in the number of both head injuries and deaths. The reduction held true even when controlling for age, sex, and severity of crash. This case-controlled study examined injury probability and patterns in riders with and without a helmet. It concluded that there was an 88% reduction in brain injury for riders who use a helmet.

Motorcycle helmets have been shown to save the lives of motorcyclists and prevent serious brain injuries. Twenty states and the District of Columbia require helmet use by all motorcycle drivers and their passengers. Twenty-eight other states have laws only covering some riders, especially those younger than 18. Three states - Colorado, Illinois, and Iowa - have no helmet requirements at all. All-rider helmet laws are effective in increasing motorcycle helmet use, thereby saving lives and reducing serious injuries.

Helmets reduce the risk of death by 29% and are 67% effective in preventing brain injuries to motorcycle riders.