Motorcycle fatalities in the state of Hawaii: a policy analysis for state lawmakers to reduce death among motorcyclists through helmet use

Abstract

As the prevalence of motorcycle use in the state of Hawaii continues to grow, so does the number of motorcycle fatalities occurring in the island state. In recent years, the rate of motorcycle fatalities in Hawaii has grown at rates reaching 300% to 800% above the national average. This, along with Hawaii's existing motorcycle helmet policy (which requires helmet use only for motorcyclists less than 18 years of age) and the scientific evidence behind the ability of helmet use to reduce head injury and save lives, has created a public health issue that needs to be addressed through Hawaii's policy. This policy analysis assesses Hawaii's existing motorcycle helmet policy through a review of the existing literature around motorcycle safety, helmets, and policy, and relates the key findings to the state of Hawaii through interviews with Hawaii state lawmakers. It is identified that Hawaii's motorcycle helmet policy is shaped by factors much like those found on the mainland United States, with the two primary considerations being the ability for helmets to help protect life versus mandatory helmet use infringing on individual liberties. Motorcycle fatalities in Hawaii would be reduced through stronger mandatory helmet use policy. For the purpose of saving lives, it is recommended that Hawaii enact a mandatory helmet policy. In lieu of mandating helmet use for all motorcyclists in Hawaii, it is recommended that Hawaii state lawmakers focus Hawaii's policy efforts at protecting young motorcyclists on two fronts, by (1) requiring helmet use for those less than 25 years of age, and (2) encouraging or incentivizing voluntary helmet use among young motorcyclists less than 35 years of age.