KALISPELL – A spike in deadly crashes across the state in the last few weeks have emergency medical professionals issuing a helmet safety reminder.
“Helmets, in general, have proven over and over [in] study after study, that wearing a helmet and not wearing a helmet makes a significant difference in your concussion. Whether you have a closed injury or a subdermal. It’s dramatic,” said Dan Daub, the Injury Prevention Coordinator at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
The Montana Department of Transportation reports that there were 12 un-helmeted fatalities in the state in 2016. Injury prevention specialists say fatality rates will drop with helmet use, as they absorb and distribute the impact of a hit to the head.
A Missoula man died on Friday evening near Lolo after his motorcycle crashed on US Highway 93 South. The Montana Highway Patrol reports he was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.
Anyone under the age of 18 is required by law the wear a helmet in Montana and all riders are highly recommended to use a one. Authorities also note that motorists also share the responsibility of keeping riders safe, by paying attention, taking your time, and wearing a seatbelt.
Reporting by Nicole Miller for MTN News
