To Helmet or Not To Helmet?

One of the most contentious issues with bike sharing systems is the topic of helmets.  In a small survey conducted in 2010 85% of people surveyed said that helmet law was the reason they wouldn't use Brisbane's CityCycle.  In 1991 a Queensland law was passed making it compulsory for cyclists of all ages to wear a helmet while riding.  The original fine was $35 but today it is $75 penalty.


Here is a video from a TED talk in Copenhagen from Mikael Colville-Anderson who raises some great points concerning helmets and helmet laws.

Some of the points Mikael raises:

• Risk of 14% greater chance of having an accident if your wearing a helmet.
• Helmets are tested for non-life threatening impacts in solo impacts under 20 km/hr and only on the crown of the head. Similar to a pedestrian falling and hitting their head on the side walk.
• Pedestrians have a higher risk of accidents than cyclists.
• Head injuries for motorists in Australia would save $400m if everyone in the car were wearing helmets.
• Bicycle helmets are promoted by the automotive industry as the bicycle is a real and immediate threat to car culture in our cities.
• Health benefits of cycling is 20 times greater than any risk involved

Do you agree?  Should we get rid of helmet laws or is there another solution?