New Bill Could Repeal Mandatory Motorcycle Helmet Law
Missouri lawmakers are supporting a piece of legislation that would repeal the mandatory motorcycle helmet law. If this bill is signed by Governor Parson, motorcycle drivers who are over the age of 18 and have medical insurance can choose not to wear a helmet.
Supporters of the bill believe riders should have the freedom to decide to wear a helmet or not. However, those opposing the bill are concerned that repealing the law will lead to more motorcycle accidents and fatalities.
These serious, potentially fatal accidents can be devastating to Missouri families, and could substantially increase medical costs.
Motorcycle Helmet Statistics
- Helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 69%.
- Helmets reduce the risk of death by 37%.
- The U.S. could save more than one billion in costs each year if all motorcycle drivers wore helmets.
According to the National Safety Council, a helmet is the most important protective equipment that a motorcyclist can wear. With high risks for serious injuries and fatalities, helmets can help protect against serious, often life-threatening brain injuries if an accident occurs.
The National Safety Council recommends that even if your state does not have a universal helmet law, motorcyclists should always wear one for their safety.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics
- 5,172 motorcyclists were killed in accidents across the U.S. in 2017.
- 98% of motorcycle accident related fatalities in Missouri in 2017 were motorcycle riders.
- 1,9000 motorcyclists were injured and 122 were killed in accidents in Missouri in 2016.
- 40% of Missouri motorcycle fatality victims in 2016 were not wearing helmets.
Due to various factors, such as the open structure of a motorcycle and level of skill required to ride safely, riding a motorcycle can be extremely dangerous. In fact, motorcyclists are 28x more likely to be killed in an accident than a passenger in a car.
The statistics about motorcycle accident fatalities are alarming, yet evidence that helmets can help reduce injuries and save lives is important to recognize.
Wearing a Helmet Can Reduce Injuries and Save Lives
While there are many other important safety factors to consider, such as proper training and wearing protective clothing, wearing a helmet is a critical safety component.
If the mandatory motorcycle helmet law is repealed, Missouri motorcyclists should consider all of the facts and hopefully continue to wear a helmet while driving to protect themselves and potentially save their own lives.
We Are Here to Help
If you or someone you love have been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident, call the Kansas City Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at the Goss Law Firm at 816-888-5000 to speak about your situation for free.
When you call, an experienced lawyer will listen to your story, answer any questions you may have and provide legal advice to help you during this difficult time. There is never a fee for the initial consultation. Our compassionate team is dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you move forward with your life. Give us a call today.
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