Motorcycle riders are more likely to sustain head injuries than passenger vehicle riders because they are often thrown from the bike during a motorcycle accident.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a common result when the skull receives the force of an impact, sometimes leading to disabilities or even death, and almost always leading to long term permanent consequences. It is, therefore, important for motorcyclists to fully understand the role of motorcycle helmets in preventing TBIs.
Do motorcycle helmets reduce the risk of traumatic brain injuries?
While it goes without saying that motorcycle helmets exist to protect the rider, there is a misconception that the helmet does not absorb enough impact to prevent TBIs. Findings from the Centers for Disease Control clear up this misconception by indicating that helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 69%. The CDC also reports that helmets are responsible for saving an estimated 1,872 lives in 2017.
Does Ohio law require motorcyclists to wear helmets?
Ohio protective helmet laws only require riders under the age of 18 and those designated as novice riders to wear motorcycle helmets. Fully licensed motorcycle riders, including those who receive their license from another state, do not have a legal obligation to wear a helmet if they are above 18 years old. These laws serve to protect young or inexperienced riders from brain injuries, but all riders can benefit from taking the extra safety precaution of wearing a helmet.
Research and statistics show that motorcycle helmets can help prevent injuries and save lives. Even so, the risk of injury in an accident is always present – with or without a helmet. Often, riders are injured or killed as a result of other drivers who fail to follow simple rules and fail to look out for motorcycles.
Insurance companies often try to blame riders for not wearing a helmet, but the blame can often be used to help the motorcyclist’s claim. Motorcycle riders and passengers should not be deterred from pursuing full legal action after they’re injured at no fault of their own, even if they were not wearing a helmet – personal injury law in Ohio permits their claims.