The use of helmets was promoted by the multi-billion dollar ( $$$$$ !!!) helmet industry ! I still vividly remember the day when Greg LeMond was the ring leader AGAINST the use of helmets during the peak of his racing career in the late eighties in Europe.........even though he was pitching for Giro helmets here in the United States for that big endorsement check from Giro. Cycling is still in its infancy here in America. There are many countries, especially in Europe, that have a much longer, more extensive and richer history with cycling and the bicycle itself. They don't wear bicycle helmets there. Infact, we are the only culture that does ! Think about it. I don't think that europeans or for that matter people of any other country are less concerned about their well being to intentionally not use helmets. They simply do not see a need for helmets, .......... if one takes the time and makes the effort to learn good bike handling skills, balance, and the art and skill of avoiding crashes in the first place. The most common cycling injuries in racing, are........ a broken collar bone, bruised hips, elbows, knees, and road-rash. Think about it. If you are falling on your head............ you haven't learned the art and skill of falling ! Every good cowboy knows how to land when thrown off a bucking horse. The leasson here is ...... learn how to fall. A good soccer player learns how to do it just as well as a good running back or wide receiver does in football. Take the time to learn the art and then make the effort to get good at it. Balance, co-ordination, anticipation, alertness etc. all are good attributes. I have never worn a helmet on the road......... just when I raced (track cycling) on the velodrome. I am now 47.