BIKERS in Michigan no longer need to burn helmets to protest against the mandatory helmet law: it has been repealed.
The law, originally passed in 1970, required all motorcycle riders to wear a helmet but it has been fought annually by American Bikers Aiming Toward Education (ABATE), a small group who formed in 1976.
The new law, which came into effect on 13th April 2012, states: 'riders 21 years and older who have 2 years riding experience, passed the motorcycle Safety Course and carry $20,000 of medical insurance can ride without a helmet.'
“It isn’t about wearing helmets, it’s about choice, it’s about our freedoms,” said Tom Rahn of ABATE.
Prior to this law being introduced, the fine for riding without a motorcycle helmet was around $100.
In the month following the new law's introduction there were three fatal motorcycle accidents - two of the victims were not wearing helmets.
That's freedom.
