I know a helmet is not a 100% guarantee you will avoid a TBI. But statistics, like the study done by the American Pony Club, bear out that helmet use greatly decreases the risk of injury. It is still possible to get a concussion wearing a helmet, but it is felt that helmet use decreases the severity of concussions. Wearing a helmet is just good common sense and there is no excuse not to wear one. If you chose not to wear a helmet and get a TBI, there are several things you can expect to happen, not only to yourself, but to your family and other loved ones too. Here’s what I’ve seen resulting from a TBI.
1. You Will Change Your Life, and The Lives of Your Loved Ones Forever
Not only may your own dreams and aspirations disappear, but your sense of self, of those who love you—and your very personality may change. You may no longer be able to make decisions for yourself. You may never be independent or fully mobile. Family members may have to have to put their lives on hold to care for you.
If you have children, you may not be able to take care of them, including being unable to make decisions regarding their upbringing. You may not be able to be responsible for yourself or anyone else again. TBIs can be hard on marriages too.
2. You May Lose Your Friends
A few steadfast friends may still spend time with you, but many will fade away and get on with their lives. You may or may not remember these people (or your family members) anyway.3. You May Lose Your Privacy
If you’re a person who values personal space and privacy, you may find your life filled with appointments, and you may never be alone a minute of the day or night. In one YouTube video of Olympic level rider Courtney King-Dye, she admits that one of her goals is to use the toilet unassisted.
4. You And Your Family May Experience Financial Hardship
It’s very likely a family member may have to quit their job if you require full-time care. Medical care to keep you alive if you’re in a coma is costly. Drugs, therapists, therapeutic and assistive equipment such as special beds, wheelchairs and other apparatus can be costly. You may need care 24X7, which means your family may need to hire a personal support worker or other help. Drugs and therapy are also part of the cost. Rehabilitation from a TBI can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.
The burden of the costs will likely fall on the shoulders of your family. Houses may have to be renovated, or you may have to be moved to a care center.
Is There an Excuse For Not Wearing a Helmet?
Helmets aren’t costly, they’re made in many styles and fits so that it’s possible to find one that fits and looks good. We owe it to our families, and to those who don’t know better to be both a safe rider and a good role model. I really believe that although there are dozens of excuses why you wouldn’t wear a helmet, any on of these five consequences would cancel out any possible excuse.