Helmet Law Repeal Proves Successful in Pennsylvania

Back on May 24, 2005, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (DOT), reported that the number of motorcycle-related fatalities in 2004 was 157, compared to 171 in 2003. The significance of those numbers is that in July of 2003, the Governor signed into a law a bill allowing motorcyclists to ride without helmets. Hence, the helmet repeal did not actually contribute to an increase of deaths.

Since last May, the DOT admitted it made a mistake in reporting the number of motorcycle deaths for 2003. The correct number is actually 156. They had accidentally included deaths from ATVs. Still, 156 deaths in 2003 compared to 157 in 2004, shows that riding without helmets doesn't necessarily lead to more deaths.

Once again, showing that responsible riding goes a lot farther in reducing deaths than wearing helmets.