Emergency room records of victims of 311 motorcycle
accidents between July 1, 1978, and
November 30, 1979, were reviewed. All accidents
occurring during these 17 months were included.
Patients were categorized according to inpatient
or outpatient treatment and the presence or absence
of helmets. The presence of helmets was
determined by the rider's statements, the statement
of the victim's family or the medic report.