Helmets save lives, its the context that your looking for proof, definitively that they don't - which amazes me. All statistics are screwed up the moment one sits down to prove any point. They're set to prove the point of the person who wants validation.

i.e. here are, in no particular order, a series of links to information that proves helmets save lives.

http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/ne...hthelmetstudy/
http://www.drmirkin.com/fitness/8805.html
http://www.yvmc.org/yampa/monday/children/helmets.html
http://www.theolympian.com/home/news...ng/68133.shtml

Here's a list of links that point and support your theory:

http://chapmancentral.demon.co.uk/We...cuments/Scharf
http://bicyclehelmets.info/

I could go on, but its not the point.

The only concession I will make is this: If your going 50MPH, no, a skid lid is probably NOT going to save your life. But, for the average person riding a bike, the helmet is a difference. I am teaching my 3-year-old how to ride a bike, with a helmet and training wheels. Based off your theory, I should throw him into the parking lot sans helmet or training wheels or supervision because its the only way he can keep from being fat, right?

Helmets save lives, they stop serious injuries in 'normal' circumstances and scenarios. They're not going to save you on par with a turtle shell at 40+ MPH, its just not realistic. Take into consideration North shore-style riding, DH riding, etc. They do not wear the same helmets that roadies do, they wear full face helmets on par with motorcycle helmets for a reason, and its not to hide the fear in their eyes from all the hotties watching them...