Helmets Reduce Risk of Serious Head Injuries

As we’ve discussed previously, the most effective "cure" for brain injury is preventing or minimizing the injury in the first place. And one sure way to minimize most brain injuries is to wear a helmet while riding a bike or motorcycle to absorb the impact of a possible collision. As Michigan orthopedic surgeon Dr. Joseph Guettler writes in an online article: "Cuts, bruises, sprains, and even broken bones will heal, but damage to your brain can last a lifetime. In an instant your head can smack the street, sidewalk, curb, a car, tree or anything else around you. Some of the most tragic cases that I have seen are closed head injuries. Sadly, many would have been prevented if a helmet was worn."

Kids are particularly vulnerable to head injuries, he explains, because of their proportionally larger heads, higher centers of gravity, and less developed coordination skills.

In choosing a helmet for yourself or any member of your family this summer, the doctor recommends getting one that meets the standards of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. He advises that an appropriate helmet should be snug, level, and stable.  It also should be brightly colored so motorists can see you easily.

An unprotected head is an easy target for brain injury. A brain injury can leave permanent life-altering damage including spinal cord injury and/or paralysis. As you or your loved ones enjoy the summer weather on a bike or motorcycle, remember that a helmet is an inexpensive way to minimize the harm of a brain injury in a road accident.