Our Stand On Helmets
OUR STAND ON HELMETS
A new reader wondered at our remarks on helmets, particularly when we're commenting on Joan Claybrook. the Department of Transportation and various safety studies and claims.
Surprising, we thought, as throughout this magazine’s life we have always taken the same stand. But in case we haven't been clear before, we'll repeat:
1) We oppose mandatory helmet laws. We consider them to be demeaning; when you make decisions for somebody, that implies they aren’t smart enough to make their own decisions. We also think helmet laws are discriminatory and unconstitutional; other road users aren't required to use comparable safety equipment.
2) We strongly endorse helmet use. Helmets work. There are no documented cases of helmets doing damage. The cases in which they have reduced injuries or prevented injury are countless. Everybody on the staff wears a helmet on every ride. Brands are a matter of personal, choice but all the helmets on staff are Snell Foundation approved, meaning they've passed the world’s toughest test.
We respect individual rights and personal or religious principles. At the same time, any motorcycle rider, w ho doesn’t wear a helmet is, we believe, taking an unnecessary risk.
