I own a Helmet.
Many times I wear it...
At times I dont Wear it.
Im not going to disect my case by case choices ajd reasons..

But, I would like to say this:

I believe the big downfall with the "Helmet" topic .... is that is often left as simple as "wear your hemet...be safe"

The helmet is what theoretically kicks into play--- because someone WAS NOT SAFE...

Its the backup last ditch effort plan for when bad choices are made and safety isnt put first... by the rider or by someone else.

Education, on the other hand...further dostances the chance of an accident in the first place.

Education in riding safety, (for riders,vehicle drivers AND pedestrians.)

Ones that choose to drive a car, walk or pedal on public areas should be properly educated and prove that they can handle themselves according to the order of the region... in a safe and wise manner.

Drivers need a drivers license. However, drivers are only one component of the traffic that happens on roads.

If a rider can't demonstrate appropriate wisdom, alertness, and courteous behaviour when mixing with traffic, he/she should not be allowed out there in the roads.

I am an avid cyclist... road and trail. Im also a licensed driver.

I believe many cyclists are smart... they stay to the side of the road..
Only claim the lane when truly necessary for safety.. and do try to be mindful of oetting traffic by when they can ( i often pull over and stop asap if I see a car is struggling to pass me. I see many cyclists that don't, and I feel that is very rude.

I believe education and enforcement would be 10x the safety factor of a helmet.

Helmets dont "make" us safe.

Applying wisdom and discernment... "make" us safe.

If helmets in themselves "make" us safe... why dont we see car drivers be legally required to wear helmets... or.. pedestrians?