The Southern Medical Journal (SMJ) is the official, peer-reviewed journal of the Southern Medical Association. It has a multidisciplinary and inter-professional focus that covers a broad range of topics relevant to physicians and other healthcare specialists.
SMJ // Article
Editorial
The Case for Universal Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Abstract
The recent trend in motorcyclist fatalities poses an increasing public health concern for the United States. During 2007, 5,154 motorcyclists lost their lives in crashes on US roads, a startling 144% increase over the 2,116 fatalities the nation experienced in 1997. While the increasing popularity of motorcycles accounts for some of this increase, the motorcyclist fatality rate suggests that other factors are involved. The national fatality rate increased from 55.3 fatalities per 100,000 registered motorcycles in 1997 to 72.2 in 2007, a 31% increase.1This content is limited to qualifying members.
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References
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