I paraphrase and edit the following article so as to not incur Peter O's displeasure by violating a ©.
New York Times Magazine, Dec. 10, Page 36
Bicycle Helmets Put You at Risk
By CLIVE THOMPSON
Cyclists who ride on city streets have the superstition that if they wear a helmet, they are more likely to get hit by a car. Could this actually be true?
Ian Walker, a university psychologist, rigged his bicycle with an ultrasonic sensor that could detect how close each car was that passed him. He alternated riding with and without a helmet for two months (2,500 passing cars).
When he wore his helmet, motorists passed him 3.35 inches closer than when his head was bare. He had increased his risk of an accident by donning safety gear.
Why? Walker theorizes helmets change the behavior of drivers. Motorists regard a helmet as a signal that the cyclist is experienced and thus can be approached with less caution.
Walker concludes the fact drivers respond to a helmet means they are making judgments about cyclists.
He rarely wears a helmet when he rides. During his study he was struck by a truck and a bus — both times, while wearing a helmet.
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Don't rag on me for putting this here. I always wear a helmet, club ride or no.
