The Role of Helmets in Preventing Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious public health problem in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 2.8 million Americans sustain a TBI each year. TBI can result in long-term disabilities or even death. One of the most effective ways to prevent TBI is by wearing protective helmets.

How Helmets Protect Against TBI

Helmets protect the head and brain by absorbing mechanical energy and deflecting impacts. They are designed to:

• Spread out the force of an impact to prevent localized damage to the skull and brain tissue. The foam and padding compress to lengthen the time and distance of the impact.
• Prevent objects from penetrating the skull and damaging the brain. The hard outer shell helps distribute contact forces and resist penetration.
• Minimize movement and jostling of the brain inside the skull. The snug fit reduces rotational forces during impact. Internal pads help limit back-and-forth motion of the head.

Helmet Use in High-Risk Activities

Wearing helmets during activities with a high risk of head injury drastically reduces the rates of TBI. Proper helmet use is crucial when:

Riding Motorcycles

Motorcycle accidents are a leading cause of TBI. Head injuries account for over 60% of deaths from motorcycle crashes. Studies show that proper motorcycle helmet use decreases the risk of head injury by 69% and death by 42%. Helmet laws also reduce societal costs associated with medical treatment for motorcycle crash victims.

Bicycling

Bike helmets can decrease the risk of head and brain injury by up to 85%. Most cycling-related TBIs are caused by falls, though collisions with vehicles also contribute. Helmets protect bicyclists from focal brain injuries as well as skull fractures.

Playing Contact Sports

Contact sports like football, ice hockey, and boxing have high rates of concussion. Helmets with face masks help protect athletes from focal brain injuries and skull fractures. Newer helmet designs try to minimize concussive forces as well. Strict rules penalizing dangerous play have also reduced brain injury rates.

Skiing and Snowboarding

TBIs make up about 15% of all snow sport-related injuries. Helmets are estimated to reduce head injuries by 35% to 60% compared to not wearing one. Most skiing and snowboarding head injuries are caused by falls or collisions on the slopes. Properly fitted helmets protect these athletes from focal brain damage and concussion.

Helmet Use Laws and Awareness Campaigns

To improve public health, many states have passed laws requiring helmet use for certain activities. California has statewide laws mandating helmets for motorcyclists and bicycle riders under 18. Many California cities also require helmets for skateboarders and scooter riders under 18.

Public awareness campaigns are also critical for promoting helmet use. Education should start early by teaching children how to properly fit and wear helmets. Continued advocacy and role modeling can lead to meaningful reductions in lifetime risk for TBI.

Protect Your Head, Protect Your Brain

Traumatic brain injuries can lead to permanent disabilities and reduced quality of life. Protective helmets are the best defense against TBI. Helmet use saves lives, prevents head injuries, and reduces the tremendous costs associated with medical treatment and rehabilitation.

If you’ve suffered a TBI, contact our office today for a free consultation with a personal injury attorney to discuss your case. We provide legal guidance to victims of TBI in the state of California.

Visit one of our offices at:

• 10 Commercial Blvd, #206 Novato, CA 94949
• 75 Broadway #202, San Francisco, CA 94111
• 3558 Round Barn Blvd, Suite 200, Santa Rosa, CA 95403

Or call us today for a free consultation on (415) 897-4801.