although never been in an accident that was bad enough to crack my helmet,
i have to say that wearing one as frequently as i do has saved my a$$ once or twice.

now when i ride, my helmet feels natural. i don't really notice it anymore.
except for the sweat on the cushioning and the dripping in the face crap (that dc heat!), it's comfortable.

i do at times think i look "less cool" than if i were wearing a cap or something, but i have never really been able to pull off that "cool" look anyways. i would much rather avoid serious harm than make a statement.