On the efficacy of my helmet

On Sat, 28 Aug 2004 10:18:05 -0400, Frank Krygowski
wrote (more or less):

Ben Kaufman wrote:


Roger,

Perhaps when one has the leisure of thinking time an unconscious process may
influence decisions but when it comes to immediate physical reactions to sudden
stimuli it's only practice that makes perfect. Plus, it is highly doubtful that
a helmet causes the typical bicyclist to believe, at any level of brain
activity, that his head is now invincible.

How about 85% invincible?

Ever since 1989, based on the astonishing results of one tiny,
poorly-designed study, people have been told over and over that "helmets
prevent up to 85% of head injuries." (Of course, that fairy tale has
never proven true, except in that original study.)

And of course, even the authors of that claim have now withdrawn it.

Almost every helmet laws that's been passed has used that as
justification, so the legislators at least pretend to believe it.

I'd say there are plenty of cyclists that believe it.

--
Cheers,
Euan
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