Several years ago, Don was riding in the country with friends—not a great day since it had begun to rain. Then it happened. The rider in front of him went down. Don got on his brakes and was bringing the bike to a stop while avoiding the downed rider when he ran out of pavement. The bike slid out from under him on the soft shoulder, and Don was thrown off the bike and slammed on to the pavement headfirst. Bleeding badly from cuts and abrasions to his face, he was transported by ambulance to a local hospital. Fortunately, he was released after a day and healed quickly. Today he is no worse for the wear because the helmet he wore that day saved his life.

My other friend, whom I’ll call Mark, was also an experienced rider, although probably not as experienced as Don. I met Mark through HOG—we were both members of the same club. We participated in club events and some socials. Although I didn’t know Mark nearly as well as I knew Don, I knew him well enough to know he was a good person, a hard worker, and an avid biker. About a year ago, Mark and a friend were out for a morning ride. As they were riding along a four-lane divided highway, Mark’s bike suddenly and inexplicably veered into the center island. The ground was wet and the bike went out of control. Mark was thrown from the bike and sustained massive head injuries when he hit the ground. He was transported by helicopter to the hospital, but died that same day. Mark had a helmet, but chose not to wear it that day. A different choice likely would have saved him.

So, for me, I don’t need a lot of statistics to convince me to wear a helmet when I ride. I do it on the advice of my two friends, one with whom I’m still able to talk and the other who speaks to me from the grave.