PA Study Concludes Motorcyclists without Helmets at Greater Risk
With healthcare becoming a national topic and the economy on a continuous downward spiral, doctors at Allegheny General Hospital have released a report detailing how motorcyclists are not only endangering themselves but are costing the state money when they are involved in an accident which requires transport, many times on helicopter, and medical treatment. The details outlined on the website pittsburghlive.com report that since the Pennsylvania helmet law was repealed in 2003 there has been an increase of motorcycle riders coming into the emergency room with serious facial and head injuries. A doctor at Allegheny General Hospital stated that treatment from facial and head injuries have doubled within the last five years.
Officials at AGH hospital reported encountering 122 motorcycle-linked facial injuries from September 2003 to August 2008, when they only had 10 from 1998 to September 2003.
Dr. Joseph E. Cillo, an AGH oral and maxillofacial surgeon, said, “Riding a motorcycle without a helmet is just risky behavior. Pennsylvania repealed the universal helmet law in 2003, but mandating helmet use to motorcyclists under 21 and riders having less than 2 years experience.”
Opponents to the law argue that helmets may not be so effective in preventing injury. Mick Morrow, president of the Pittsburgh-based War Dogs Motorcycle Club said, “The rider is unable to see potential problems as quickly as they might without the helmet. A split-second can make the difference between an accident and avoiding an accident."
No matter where you stand on the helmet question, serious injuries are experienced by motorcyclists everyday in Pennsylvania. Last year there were 239 motorcycle deaths alone in Pennsylvania. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident in Pennsylvania, call the personal injury lawyers at Cherry, Fieger, & Marciano LLP. The Philadelphia motorcycle injury lawyers at Cherry, Fieger, & Marciano are experienced and knowledgeable of the law and court system. They have the skill to take care of all your concerns and will fight to get you a winning decision to help bring your life back to normal. Please call 1-888-684-7192 and ask about their free in home consultation.
Source article: http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/lifestyles/health/print_651210.html
