CDC: Motorcycle helmet laws reduce deaths

ATLANTA (AP) -  

A new government study shows far fewer motorcyclists die in states that require helmets.

On average, about five times as many bikers without helmets die in states with less restrictive laws.

The researchers counted about 6,000 deaths over three years of motorcyclists who were not wearing helmets. Only about 12 percent were in the 20 states that required everyone on motorbikes to wear helmets.

They also calculated that helmet laws save money, too. States that mandate helmet use save about $500 more in medical and other costs per registered bike than states with fewer restrictions.

Three states had no helmet law when the study was done. Another 27 required helmets for teenagers or certain other riders.

Ohio and Indiana require all motorcycle riders younger than 18 to wear helmets while riding a motorcycle, and Kentucky riders are required to wear a helmet until they turn 21.

Jason Claypool, 39, of Burlington, Ky., died Monday morning when his motorcycle was struck on I-75 near I-74 . Claypool was not wearing a helmet.