Wait a minute. The wife sued and got millions because her husband wasn't wearing a helmet? How did that work?
I'm not debating whether helmets are a good idea or not. I'm not debating whether helmet laws are right or wrong. I'm not questioning your choice to wear a helmet, and I can appreciate the reasons you stated for wearing one. I am challenging people who say that helmetless riders cause them to pay higher insurance premiums. When I hear someone say that, I say show me the proof.
Everyone has their stories, but in this case anecdotal evidence is not proof. I can tell you several stories where I think my helmet did almost cause me to have an accident. There are stories in the forum archives about riders who had neck injuries that were probably caused by wearing a helmet, but that isn't proof that insurance premiums are being impacted.
I want to see a study with true measurements of cause and effect, or a statement from an insurance company stating the statistics they are using to adjust their premiums, or even an insurance application form that asks if you wear a helmet. Until I see that, I say there is no proof, and premiums are not being impacted in any measurable way.
BTW, I care a great deal about the cost of insurance. I care about vehicle insurance, and I especially care about health insurance. Since I am currently a student and not working, I pay 100% of my premiums out of my own pocket. Health and auto insurance are a big chunk of my budget. Insurance costs are one big factor that may keep me from staying in school. And since I feel I can only afford insurance with very high deductibles, I pay 100% of my doctor visits and prescriptions. I find it a little troubling that some people say so casually that I should pay 10 times more for insurance.
I'm not trying to start an argument here. I have just heard the statement many times that "helmetless riders are costing me money". Sometimes it's said with some vitriol, as if it's costing a LOT of money. I don't think the statement has any basis. I don't think it's true and I think it should be challenged.
Regards, and ride safe.
Cody
