I have restrained myself from commenting on the helmet issue. Although a personal choice in the state of Pennsylvania, it is my opinion is that you should wear one when riding. I have seen all kinds of apparel on the road (and many that are lacking).
Yesterday I noticed three riders on sport bikes, wearing shorts, sneakers (one had on sandals) t-shirts and sunglasses, no helmets. As they were speeding along, noticibly enjoying themeelves by swerving in and out of traffic, popping wheelies while travling at a high rate of speed, I wondered what I would do if they crashed into me, or worse, someone else. Driving a larger SUV, I believe I would fair much better in the crash than any of them. I know for sure that my body would have been better protected.
When I ride, a helmet is on my head. I wear protective foot wear. Having ridden over 8000 miles so far this riding season, I have been very fortunate. It is not worth the risk. Things seem to happen much faster on a bike.
I mentioned at the Prayer Service for Pastor Al that there are two kinds of riders. Those that have gone down, and those that will. For those of us that have gone down, we understand the dynamics of what happens. Most can remember, either saying out loud, or at least thinking, "this is going to hurt." In my case Deb can attest to the vocal rendition of that statement. I have said many times that based upon my accident in 2003, I would not be here making this post had I not been wearing a helmet. I keep the helmet as a reminder, and it shows the scuff marks of the asphalt pavent on the left side and rear. I can only imagine what my head would have looked like without it.
I found this video on YouTube from a man in New Mexico concerning helmets. And, athough some of the language is offensive, the video makes a point. If you want the opinion of an avid biker, and can take the language, view it at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8jTHlVqiOU
I am NOT making any excuses for the language, however, the content is good.
As I mentioned in the begining of this post, it is your choice. As far as the three I saw yesterday, I would stop if needed to help, because of God's compassion in my heart. It has nothing to do with their choice.
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I absolutely agree! Some helmetless biker was swerving around me on Rt 22 yesterday and because he cut my SUV off, I had to brake really hard not to hit him! I would have felt HORRIBLE if something had happened. Not only was the kid driving wrecklessly, he was acting wreckless in his choice not to wear a helmet.
ReplyDeleteI think Al's experience will teach all of the bikers close to him a valuable lesson. It only took me a short year or so working in the ER, scrubbing road rash out of bikers wounds, seeing fatalities, and lives completely changed in those who had injuries such as Al's to realize it is only a matter of "common sense" to use the protective gear made to keep bikers safer on the road. I just shake my head every time I see a biker with out a helmet on. But I don't feel I have a right to say much because I am not a biker. But when you've seen what I have seen... I have been biting my lip too Mitch on the helmet issue. Maybe I should have kept it bitten? :)
ReplyDeleteAl has our mighty GOD on his side. HE will be using Al's testimony for HIS purpose and good. GOD needs Al here as HE has much more work for him to do. I am in awe at the progress Al has been making. Our GOD is an AWESOME GOD! My family and I will continue to pray for Al's amazing recovery! Thanks Mitch!