Motorcyclists in Mississippi face a heightened risk of collisions and catastrophic injuries or fatalities.  Motorcycles are inherently more dangerous than a passenger vehicle because of their lack of stability, small margin for error, and complete absence of structural protection for riders.  Given the heightened risk posed to those who ride motorcycles, it is widely acknowledged by most safety experts that a motorcycle helmet is an indispensable item of safety gear for any rider.

Head injuries are the most common cause of catastrophic injuries and fatalities resulting from motorcycle crashes.  Government data reveals that a rider who is not wearing a helmet is 40 percent more likely to suffer a fatal head injury according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).  When calculated on the basis of miles driven, a rider involved in a motorcycle accident is 37 times more likely to be killed in an accident than a passenger vehicle occupant.

Despite this data and general acceptance of the safety benefits provided by motorcycle helmets, there are those who contend that motorcycle helmets actually increase the risk of serious injuries to the neck and spine.  However, research in recent years debunks the myth that motorcycle helmets increase the risk of these types of injuries.  A recent study not only confirms that helmets do not raise the risk of injury to the spine and neck but also indicates that helmets actually reduce the risk of cervical spinal injuries.

The study reported in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons is significant because a number of states have repealed universal helmet laws based on concerns about the relationship between helmets and neck injuries.  This legislative trend has been partially based on a small isolated study conducted almost three decades ago that indicated motorcycle helmets might increase the risk of neck injuries.

The NHTSA has long criticized the methodology and reliability of the earlier study.  Motorcycle accident experts also have pointed out that motorcycle helmet standards have improved substantially since the earlier study.  Because helmets manufactured today are lighter and more durable, they provide enhanced protection against head trauma with less stress on the neck and spine.  The Journal of American College of Surgeons study reveals that a person involved in a motorcycle accident who is wearing a helmet is 22 percent less likely to experience a cervical spine injury.  The conclusions were based on analysis of data from over 40,000 motorcycle accidents.

As motorcycle helmet laws have been repealed, there has been a predictable increase in motorcycle-related injuries and fatalities.  During the last 14-year period, there has been an increase in motorcycle accident related injuries by about 5,000 per year while motorcycle accident fatalities have doubled according to NHTSA data.  This trend is directly correlated with the repeal of mandatory helmet laws in many states.  Hopefully, studies that debunk misconceptions about specious safety risks associated with motorcycle helmets will encourage legislators to review the appropriateness of universal helmet laws.

Our Mississippi Motorcycle Accident Attorneys see the tragic consequences of riding motorcycles without the benefit of a helmet all too often, so we encourage all motorcyclists to wear a helmet at all times.  At Barrett Law, we understand motorcycle accident victims often feel overwhelmed, and we are here to help.  Contact our firm today at (800) 707-9577 to schedule your free consultation.  We can evaluate your right to financial compensation.