Personal Injury Law

Motorcycle Wrecks and Medical Costs

By Steve Lombardi

Several people who commented argued there is no difference in the cost of medical car associated with motorcycle accidents with or without a helmet. Unfortunately that is not true. The studies show completely the opposite to be true.

In November 2002, NHTSA reported that 25 studies of the costs of injuries from motorcycle crashes "consistently found that helmet use reduced the fatality rate, probability and severity of head injuries, cost of medical treatment, length of hospital stay, necessity for special medical treatments, and probability of long-term disability.

The studies don't support the argument against mandatory helmet laws. And when those without a helmet need medical care who ends up paying for that care? The studies show it's you and I.

Only slightly more than half of motorcycle crash victims have private health insurance coverage. For patients without private insurance, a majority of medical costs are paid by the government. This issue isn't about the Bill of Rights, it's about financial responsibility.

Full post as published by Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyer on January 29, 2008 (boomark / email).