Do helmets prevent the more serious injuries in ATV accidents?
Yes, helmets significantly reduce the risk of serious injuries in ATV accidents, particularly head injuries, which are among the most severe and potentially life-threatening outcomes of such accidents. Here are some key points highlighting the importance of helmet use in preventing serious injuries:
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Reduction in Head Injuries:
- Concussions and TBIs: Helmets provide a crucial layer of protection that can absorb and dissipate the force of impacts, reducing the likelihood and severity of concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
- Skull Fractures: Helmets help protect against direct blows to the head, which can cause skull fractures.
- Ask Yourself, what would life be like if you could not think, could not remember how things work, could not remember the order of putting things back together, or were unable to even get ready for work because of a brain injury? See, that is what brain damage does to a person. I once asked a client’s wife how her brain-damaged husband’s behavior was different than say a five-year-old’s. She said, “A child can learn from their mistakes.” That sort of says it all. No helmet? Really? Just think about running as fast as you can and with your head run into the side of a car, truck or even a rock. That is what you may do without a helmet.
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Statistical Evidence:
- According to studies, helmet use can reduce the risk of head injury by approximately 64% and the risk of death by 42%.
- Data from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and other safety organizations consistently show lower rates of head and facial injuries among helmeted riders compared to those who ride without helmets.
- Statistics can be great, but for you it will not be about statistics, but about how important earning a living is for you. You see, your employer does not care if you have brain damage, they only care if you can do the job. And if you are not able to do the job, then they fire you. And replace you with someone else who does not have brain damage.
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Prevention of Facial Injuries:
- Facial Fractures: Helmets with full-face protection can prevent fractures to the jaw, nose, and cheekbones.
- Dental Injuries: Helmets can also help protect against dental injuries, such as broken or knocked-out teeth.
- Lawyers, do not take dental cases. Because there is no way to get paid. Insurance companies usually deny claims for dental damage. They say, go ahead and prove it this is new damage and not an existing dental problem. That adds up to you end up paying for your dental work.
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Impact on Overall Safety:
- Improved Outcomes: Riders who wear helmets are more likely to survive crashes and have better recovery outcomes compared to those who do not wear helmets.
- Enhanced Protection: Helmets often come with additional safety features, such as visors and padding, which can provide extra protection for the face and head.
- Protect Your Brain: It is simple, protect your brain because after you suffer a TBI it is likely you will lose your job, your friends, your social life and your marriage will end. And that is because no one will recognize who you have become. You will be a completely different person.
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Behavioral Influence:
- Promoting Safety Culture: Wearing helmets can encourage a culture of safety and lead to more cautious and responsible riding behaviors, further reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
While helmets are not a guarantee against all injuries, their effectiveness in preventing the most serious and fatal injuries in ATV accidents is well-documented. It is crucial for ATV riders of all ages to wear properly fitted helmets designed specifically for ATV use to maximize their protective benefits.
The Lombardi Law Firm is a personal injury firm with a long history of recovering substantial sums while caring about our client’s future. If you have questions about your legal options, or would like to just talk with a lawyer, call the Lombardi Law Firm. There is no charge to talk with us. If we take your case, you will not be charged unless there is a recovery.