By BRENT MARTIN
St. Joseph Post
Missouri might soon not require adult motorcycle riders to wear helmets.
The legislature repealed the mandatory motorcycle helmet law for those 18 and older who carry qualifying medical insurance. Those younger than 18 would still be required to wear helmets.
The legislation now goes to the desk of Gov. Mike Parson for his signature. Parson supported repeal as a member of the legislature.
St. Joseph Safety and Health Council Executive Director Sheldon Lyon declines to comment directly on the General Assembly’s action, but does say it’s only smart for motorcyclists, riding a vehicle with a small silhouette, to wear protective gear.
“It’s harder for operators of a motor vehicle, like a car, to see a motorcycle,” Lyon tells St. Joseph Post. “So, anytime you’re in a vehicle like that you want to protect yourself and that includes riding gear: your boots, your gloves, goggles, helmet. All of those things are important to keep yourself safe while you’re enjoying your motorcycle.”
Missouri is in the minority among states. Only 19 states, plus the District of Columbia, mandate the wearing of motorcycle helmets, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Lyon says whether the mandatory motorcycle helmet law is repealed or not, the council will continue to advocate for the wearing of motorcycle helmets.
“I understand the fact that there is a feeling of freedom when you ride the motorcycle and, for some, they’re very much opposed to the helmet law,” Lyon says. “I think, as an advocate for highway safety, we know those helmets save lives and so, I think, with the repeal of the helmet law, you’re going to see the number of brain injuries increase.”
Legislators opposed to the change warn repeal will lead to more deaths and serious injuries on Missouri roadways. Repeal has been before the General Assembly for years. In 2009, lawmakers passed a mandatory motorcycle helmet repeal law, but couldn’t overcome a veto by Gov. Jay Nixon.
Click here to read about Senate Bill 147, the motorcycle helmet repeal law.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.