ALT-22 Motorcyclists should always Wear Helmets – Agree
I believe in freedom of choice. That's what America was founded on. The government should not be in the business of protecting people from themselves. While I voted "Agree" on this issue, it's really not that simple for me.
I began riding motorcycles in the spring of 2006. Since I have two young children and a wonderful spouse at home, I don't get on a bike without a helmet. In fact, I leave a spare helmet in the trunk of my car, in case I'm out somewhere and a friend offers me a ride. I can't imagine leaving my family to survive without me, just because I did not take the proper safety precautions before getting on the back of a motorcycle. Therefore, I protect myself as much as possible when I ride. This includes a helmet, over-the-ankle leather boots, clothing with long sleeves and leather chaps and vest. In the unfortunate event of an accident, the vital areas of my body are well-protected.
I do not live in one of the states which has mandatory helmet laws, and I appreciate having freedom of choice. While I have made a helmet mandatory for myself, very few of my friends wear a helmet when riding. That's okay! While I can show you hundreds of pictures, articles and books that support the use of a helmet at all times, my friends can tell you stories and show you evidence of the rare times when a helmet is more of a hazard in a crash than a safety benefit. There have been cases of riders being thrown from their motorcycle in a crash, and they sustained a fatal head injury because they weren't wearing a helmet. There have been many cases of riders being thrown from their motorcycle and coming out unscathed, thanks to the use of a helmet. I also know of at least one incident in which a rider suffered a fatal neck injury in an accident, due to the helmet they were wearing. In the latter case, it may never be known whether the injuries were due to an ill-fitting or otherwise improper helmet.
When I ride cross-country with friends, my helmet doesn't leave my head. My friends who are opposed to helmets will strap one to the sissybar of their bikes, so they can stop at the entrance of those states that do have mandatory helmet laws, and put on their helmets so we can continue our ride. I support my friends, and their freedom of choice, even though their beliefs don't line up exactly with mine. Whether you choose to wear a helmet or not, I wish the best of luck on your travels, and safe rides always.
