Evaluation of the Repeal of Motorcycle Helmet Laws in Kentucky and Louisiana (Report)

The 1998 universal motorcycle helmet law repeal in Kentucky and the 1999 repeal in Louisiana produced similar effects.  Observed helmet use dropped from nearly full compliance under the laws to the 50 percent range without the laws.  Motorcyclist fatalities increased in the near term by sizeable amounts - by over 50 percent in Kentucky and by 100 percent in Louisiana.  The increase in fatalities in Kentucky and Louisiana were probably due to increased exposure.  The experience in Kentucky and Louisiana is similar to the experience in Arkansas and Texas, two other states that repealed universal laws recently (1997).  This leaves little doubt that such repeals have demonstrable negative safety consequences.  8.5" x 11", two color, 45 pages.