Risky ride: More motorcycle deaths fuel new debate over helmet laws

High court upheld helmet law

By GANNETT NEWS SERVICE

In 1972, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in the case of Simon v. Sargent that a mandatory helmet law in Massachusetts was constitutional.

The plaintiff in the case had argued that people have a right to take risks that involve only themselves, but the court didn't agree that motorcycle riders injured in a crash are the only ones affected:

"From the moment of injury, society picks the person up off the highway; delivers him to a municipal hospital and municipal doctors; provides him with unemployment compensation if, after recovery, he cannot replace his lost job; and, if the injury causes permanent disability, may assume responsibility for his and his family's subsistence. We do not understand a state of mind that permits plaintiff to think that only he himself is concerned."

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Originally published March 26, 2008

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» Motorcycle deaths rose as states rolled back helmet laws

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» Sportbikes breed culture of speed and stunts

» Bikers, helmet advocates debate medical costs

» The right helmet can save a life

» Motorcycle safety tips

» High court upheld helmet law

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