Since Michigan relaxed its helmet laws for adults, there has been a significant rise in motorcycle-related fatalities.

 While there's an overall reduction in motorcycle accidents from 2012 to 2022, fatal motorcycle accidents have increased.

• Since 2012, motorcycle fatalities have seen a steady increase.
• Riders without helmets face a higher risk of critical injuries in accidents.
• Some argue for the right of motorcyclists to choose how they ride.
• Since Michigan legislators permitted adults over 21 to ride without helmets, fatal motorcycle accidents have surged by 34%, even as overall crashes have diminished.

Michigan State Police data shows a reduction in motorcycle crashes from 3,600 in 2012 to 3,158 in 2022, yet fatalities rose from 129 to 173.

Lt. Mike Shaw of the Michigan State Police noted, "Wearing more safety gear invariably offers better protection. If you're in a motorcycle accident and you're not wearing a helmet, your chances of a fatal injury increase, given the collision with a larger vehicle."

Last year, state police data revealed that out of 173 motorcycle fatality victims, 91 were not wearing helmets.

This increase aligns with the overall rise in vehicular fatalities, which went up by 19% from 936 in 2012 to 1,123 in 2022.

The uptick in fatalities following the repeal of the helmet mandate aligns with pre-2012 studies indicating higher motorcycle death rates in states without mandatory helmet laws, such as Texas and Arkansas. Post-repeal research in Michigan has shown a similar rise in fatalities.

In Michigan, motorcyclists opting not to wear helmets must have at least $20,000 in medical coverage for themselves and passengers.

With police no longer able to issue tickets for riding without a helmet, they emphasize the importance of wearing protective gear to mitigate serious injuries in case of accidents.

“Often, cars overlook motorcyclists, especially during left turns," Shaw remarked, adding that the lack of reflective clothing can make motorcyclists harder to spot.

A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration survey found that about two-thirds of motorcyclists nationwide wear helmets. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 69%.

Michigan’s current legislative body, led by Democrats, has shown no indication of intending to revisit the helmet law.

Rep. Nate Shannon emphasized the importance of continually informing Michigan residents about the risks of riding without a helmet and advocated for helmet use to lower the risk of serious injuries or death.

Vince Consiglio, president of ABATE, supports Michigan's law for providing riders with the choice of how to ride, saying, "Riders should have the choice. Those who feel they should wear a helmet, should, and the same goes for other protective gear."

Motorcyclists in Michigan must pass a safety class and a test for an endorsement on their licenses allowing them to ride.

Shaw noted that not having an endorsement is a common issue in crashes, but Consiglio stressed the importance of proper training for riders.

Dr. Jim Getzinger, an emergency physician, reported an increase in head injuries among motorcyclists not wearing helmets, from mild concussions to severe skull fractures, underscoring the significant risks involved.