National News

Biker deaths reduced in states with motorcycle helmet laws

Posted: Jun 15, 2012 6:59 AM by CBS | MTN News
Updated: Jun 15, 2012 7:00 AM

A new government study shows far fewer motorcyclists die in states that require helmets.

On average, about five times as many bikers without helmets die in states with less restrictive laws.

The researchers counted about 6,000 deaths over three years of motorcyclists who were not wearing helmets. Only about 12 percent were in the 20 states that required everyone on motorbikes to wear helmets.

In Montana the law states an operator and passenger under 18 years of age of a motorcycle or four wheeler operated upon the streets or highways of Montana shall wear protective headgear upon the head. The headgear must meet standards established by the department of justice.

A person may not operate a motorcycle upon a highway in the state unless all passengers under 18 years of age are in compliance with the law.