Mandatory helmets? Let bikers make own choices

Since the federal government stopped threatening to withhold highway money from states that don't require headgear in 1995, a few states have repealed helmet laws. Don't look for North Carolina to join them.

The three legislators who have introduced bills to change the helmet law in the past 10 years have either left the General Assembly or will do so this year.

"I don't think it ever will pass here," said Rex Baker, a former state representative who sponsored at least three bills to repeal the mandatory helmet law for riders with six months of experience. "People just don't understand the issue."

Some bikers say that helmets can restrict their peripheral vision and hearing. Some also say that helmet laws infringe on their rights.

"We don't require medical insurance for people who ski or bungee jump," Baker said. "I just think it's unfair."

If you want to ride without a helmet, you should be able to do so. Government shouldn't dictate morality or common sense.

It's your brain. Use it or lose it.

Scott Sexton