Helmets Lower Risk of Cervical Spine Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents
Helmets Lower Risk of Cervical Spine Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that helmets saved the lives of 1,859 motorcyclists in 2016. Yet, another 802 lives could have been saved if every motorcyclist had been wearing one.

One reason some motorcyclists cite for not wearing a helmet is the belief that the weight of the helmet could increase the risk of a cervical spine injury (CSI). Some studies over the years have shown that there is an increased risk of CSI among riders who wore a helmet in a crash. However, most studies do not show a correlation between wearing a helmet and suffering a cervical spine injury.

Study Debunks Myth that Helmets Increase Risk of CSI

A new study conducted by the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics found that wearing a helmet actually lowers the likelihood of a CSI in a motorcycle accident. The study analyzed the charts of 1,061 injured motorcyclists treated at a Level 1 trauma center between 2010 and 2015. Of the patients who wore a helmet, only 7.4% suffered a CSI, whereas 15.4% of patients who were not wearing a helmet suffered at least one CSI. Cervical spine fractures were sustained by 10.8% of riders who did not wear helmets, compared to just 4.6% of those who wore helmets.

“Hundreds of lives could be saved every year if every motorcyclist would wear a helmet while riding,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, El Centro, and Yucca Valley, and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.

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