University of Iowa Health Science Relations and
Craig Zwerling, MD, PhD, MPH, MS
Professor of Occupational & Environmental Health/Internal Medicine/Epidemiology
First Published: November 2000
Last Revised: October 2003
Peer Review Status: Internally Peer Reviewed

Wearing a motorcycle helmet while riding is the single most important factor in preventing head injury or death among motorcycle riders.

"Helmets keep people from being killed or maimed in motorcycle crashes," says Dr. Craig Zwerling, professor of occupational and environmental health at the University of Iowa. "Helmets also prevent head injuries--the most serious and expensive kind of trauma."

Iowa is one of the few states without a helmet law, Zwerling says. Iowa had a law requiring all motorcyclists to wear a helmet in the 1970s, but the law was repealed after only one year. During the year the law was in effect, deaths from motorcycle accidents were 35 percent lower than before the law was passed.

"Helmet laws work," Zwerling says. "People generally comply with the law, and the laws prevent deaths and injuries. They also reduce the amount of money taxpayers cover for uninsured riders."

Health care costs for persons with head injuries are very expensive. "Taxpayers pick up at least 40 percent of the hospitalization costs for uninsured motorcyclists," Zwerling says. "The people against mandatory helmet laws say it's a matter of choice for the motorcyclist. The question we have to ask is whether taxpayers should foot the bill for unhelmeted motorcyclists." he adds.

Some states have adopted partial use laws requiring motorcyclists under 17 years old to wear helmets. While it is important for children to wear helmets, compliance for everyone is over 90 percent when all riders must wear helmets, Zwerling says, "Partial laws are difficult to enforce and only half of all motorcyclists wear helmets in those states,"

People object to helmet laws for varied reasons. However, helmets:

• Don't increase the risk of spinal injuries.
• Don't obstruct critical peripheral vision.
• Don't interfere with hearing.
• Don't cause dangerous temperatures inside the helmet.
• Don't cause fatigue.

Zwerling also suggests motorcyclists wear leather jackets and chaps or other thick outer wear to protect arms and legs. "Riders should also use extreme caution while riding on highways and city streets," Zwerling says. "Accidents are equally as frequent on both types of roads. Remember to anticipate other drivers and stay out of their blind spots. Never ride with another motorcyclist side by side. Always stay single file."

Zwerling also encourages motorcycle riders to take a motorcycle riding course offered by the Department of Motor Vehicle Safety.

For more information on helmets and motorcycle safety, talk to your family physician.