I've never worn a helmet, i grew up in a rural area and it just wasn't much of a concern growing up. now that i ride in the city I'm terrified to not wear a helmet, but i don't have one yet. It's legal for me to not wear a helmet, and it seems to be about a 50/50 split as to people who do and do not wear a helmet. My question is this, Is their any merit to the horror stories i hear about wearing helmets? Most notably the stories about someone getting their spinal column damaged at the neck? i plan on buying one ASAP anyway. I also understand that it is important that they fit properly and you position them correctly. Any advice to give a newbie to urban cycling?