Federally mandating motorcycle helmets in the United States

BMC Public Health

Debate

Katie Hsia¹  Chad Simon¹  Adam E. M. Eltorai¹  Ariel Choi¹  Christopher T. Born²  Alan H. Daniels² 

[1] Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Box G-9247, 02903, Providence, RI, USA;Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Box G-9247, 02903, Providence, RI, USA;Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rhode Island Hospital, 02903, Providence, RI, USA;

关键词: Motorcycle helmet;    Health policy;    Injury prevention;   

DOI  :  10.1186/s12889-016-2914-3

 received in 2015-07-30, accepted in 2016-03-01,  发布年份 2016

来源: Springer

【 摘 要 】

BackgroundMotorcycle helmets reduce both motorcycle-related fatalities and head injuries. Motorcycle crashes are a major public health concern which place economic stress on the U.S. healthcare system.DiscussionAlthough statewide universal motorcycle helmet laws effectively increase helmet use, most state helmet laws do not require every motorcycle rider to wear a helmet. Herein, we propose and outline the solution of implementing federal motorcycle helmet law, while addressing potential counterarguments.ConclusionsThe decision to ride a motorcycle without a helmet has consequences that affect more than just the motorcyclist. In an effort to prevent unnecessary healthcare costs, injuries, and deaths, public health efforts to increase helmet use through education and legislation should be strongly considered. Helmet use on motorcycles fits squarely within the purview of the federal government public health and economic considerations.

【 授权许可】

CC BY   
© Eltorai et al. 2016