In a number of our posts, we have highlighted the dangers of riding motorcycles. Essentially, the thrill and freedom of riding a motorcycle comes with the inherent danger of serious injury. We often caution our readers (and car drivers) to watch out for motorcycles, because car/motorcycle crashes are the common culprit behind rider injuries.
However, in some instances bike riders can be injured by other elements. In the case of a Peoria man who was injured, a deer crossing the road caused the accident.
According to a Peoria Journal-Star report, the 52-year-old motorcyclist was travelling southbound on Pulsifer Road when two deer ran out in front of him.
The man apparently swerved to avoid the deer and lost control of his bike. The Peoria County Sheriff reports that the man fell off the motorcycle and slid on the pavement, where he suffered a head injury. He was taken to the hospital and remains there in critical condition. The report did not specify whether the man was wearing a helmet or whether he suffered any other injuries stemming from the accident.
Nevertheless, helmet use has proven to be the most effective way to limit the extent of head injuries suffered in a motorcycle accident, and to stave off other serious injuries that can be suffered in an accident. Moreover, the savings (in costs and employee productivity) that come from wearing helmets cannot be understated. In 2010, the CDC conducted a story where it found states with universal helmet laws saved at least $2.8 million.
Suffice it to say, while you cannot predict when (or if) a deer will lead to an accident, the damages can be mitigated by wearing a helmet.
Source: PJStar.com, Motorcyclist remains in critical condition after hitting deer, August 3, 2013