The use of helmets as vital prevention

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The extensive statistics that are disseminated on road accidents have points of agreement in the sense that the majority of these episodes (often with fatal consequences) are produced by the refusal of many drivers to respect the most basic rules established at the national, provincial and and municipal.

Inattentions that may well be linked to recklessness and recklessness when driving a car or motorcycle, to name the vehicles with the greatest involvement in tragedies that occur on roads or in streets and avenues in urban areas.

It is not about spreading blame in a generalized way, since the majority of motorists and motorcyclists make an effort to abide by traffic rules. And, even more so, to protect their lives and that of any third parties involved in an accident.

However, it is enough to stop in the field of motorcycles to conclude that not everything is in order. It is not unknown that the operation of a motorcycle without a helmet on (both by the driver and the occasional passenger) is among the most recurrent violations. It is common to see those who drive these circular vehicles with their helmets hanging on their wrist or elbow.

Statistics produced by public and private institutions dedicated to the analysis of this problem are always useful. In this sense, a study carried out by Johns Hopkins University in the United States, within the framework of the Bloomberg Global Road Safety Initiative, determined that on the streets of the city of Córdoba only 59% of motorcyclists use helmets correctly.

It was also analyzed that 62% of vehicles exceed the speed limits allowed within the urban area.

The objective of teamwork was based on the analysis of the main risk factors in terms of road safety. That is, speed in accordance with the permitted limits, and use of a helmet, seat belts and child protection supports on board a vehicle.

Among companions, the correct use of helmets is even lower: it was found that only 42% have it placed correctly. In short, more than valid reasons to deepen controls, as well as in line with not declining public campaigns on road safety.

Beyond the concurrent responsibilities, the antecedents are worrying and disastrous. Figures originating from the aforementioned studies and journalistic investigations show that, on average, a motorcyclist dies every 10 days in the city of Córdoba due to mistakes or collisions with cars. Reviewed in interannual periods, the death toll is alarming.

The Municipality of Córdoba has become involved in the issue and remembers that good driving practices can contribute to reducing risks and, in line with a reality that is seen on the streets, emphasizes the proper use of helmets.

Prudence and adherence to the rules are crucial to reduce the number of deaths that were avoidable to zero.