Motorcycle Safety Begins With Using (and Protecting) Your Head
Although wearing a helmet greatly increases riders' chances of surviving accidents, concussions can occur regardless.

May 28, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- While there are a number of motorcycle riders who choose not to wear helmets, and in many states they have the right to do so, one thing is certain: wearing a helmet increases riders' chances of surviving an accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that wearing a helmet reduces the risk of fatality by 29 percent.

The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) reports that, as 2010 progressed, the numbers of motorcyclists fatally injured in wrecks steadily increased. Sadly, the GHSA expects this trend to continue and gave two reasons for this expectation. First, as gas prices rise, more people may turn to more-fuel-efficient motorcycles as a way to cut costs -- meaning there will be more riders on the road. Second, the GHSA reports that the number of riders who wore helmets that comply with Department of Transportation standards has dropped by 13 percent.

Although wearing a helmet greatly increases riders' chances of surviving accidents, concussions can occur regardless. It is always important to seek medical care after an accident, and it is increasingly more important to do so if riders sustain a concussion or, as they say in football, "get their bells rung."

Symptoms of Concussion

The symptoms of a concussion may vary from rider to rider. However, according to Mayo Clinic, common symptoms include:
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
- Dizziness/"seeing stars"
- Nausea or vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Ringing in ears
- Fatigue

A concussion may include some or all of these symptoms. Concussions usually do not show on MRI or other diagnostic tests. The diagnosis is usually made by clinical diagnosis. A concussion can result in serious alteration of one's daily activities, an inability to perform at work or school, increased irritability, or forgetfulness.

Motorcycle Awareness Month

Because motorcycle safety goes beyond just reminding riders to wear helmets, the North Carolina Legislature declared May motorcycle awareness month. By doing so, the Legislature reminds drivers of the importance of being aware of motorcycles, and reminds motorcyclists of the importance of riding safely.

Safe Riding Tips

Whether it is motorcycle awareness month or not, motorcyclists should always ride safely. Tips for riding safely include:
- Always wear a helmet
- Wear eye protection
- Wear protective clothing -- long pants, close-toed shoes, gloves, jacket
- Make sure the bike is in good working condition
- Obey all rules of the road
- Never drink alcohol and ride
- Ride defensively like other drivers do not see you

As summer approaches, more and more motorcycles will take to the roads of North Carolina. Remember to ride safely, and if you are involved in an accident, seek medical attention immediately, especially if you hit your head during the accident. Head injuries can be serious. Take them seriously.

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