Although helmets protect the head, many people believe that helmets pose a risk of spinal cord injury. However, a recent study by Johns Hopkins University concluded the opposite. Through research, the study concluded that while helmets primarily defend against head trauma, it can also defend against spinal cord injury.
About 20 years ago, safety advocates argued against universal helmet laws, because a small study claimed that the weight of helmets would place more torque on the neck, which would severely damage the spinal cord. However, the Johns Hopkins study showed that riders with helmets are 22% less likely to experience a spinal cord injury than those who rode without helmets.
Helmet Statistics
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration used a Gallup poll to ask about people’s helmet wearing habits. Only 50% of bicyclers wear a helmet for some trips and 35% use helmets for all or most trips. Of the people polled 9 of 10 support helmet laws for children and 62% support helmet laws for adults.
The researchers at Johns Hopkins are convinced that their study will help contribute to the legislation of helmet laws in America. Only 20 states currently require bicyclists to wear helmets as of 2011 and Utah is sadly not on this list.
A bicycle accident, whether it results in head trauma or a spinal cord injury, results in other sufferings besides physical pain. If you have experienced a bicycle accident because of negligent motorist, call the experienced personal injury lawyers at the Christensen Law Firm to find out how they can help you. A spinal cord injury can result in medical bills and lost wages, so call 801-506-0800 for a free offshore merchant account consultation.