It's a common joke among folks in the medical profession- motorcyclists are often referred to as "donorcycles." The gist being that brain-dead bikers serve as worthy organ donors.

Turns out it's not just a joke.

A 2011 study by University of Michigan researchers studied the Donorcycle Theory. The results may surprise you. Or  not.

In states where helmet laws have been relaxed or repealed the number of organ donations resulting from motor vehicle crashes increased 10% on average. "So for every three deaths involving motorcyclists riding without helmets, the economists figure that death is delayed or prevented for one person on an organ waiting list." I feel better. The study also found the quality of donations increased- partially due to demographics. But in some part it may also be attributable to the types of injuries a helmet-free rider sustains. It seems a brain-dead victim provides the freshest organs.

Currently in the US there are 31 states where adults are not required to wear a helmet. There is greater interest in this study recently as more states consider a repeal of their motorcycle helmet laws. Read more here...

Road Worrier: Economist studies link between helmet-free bikers, organ donors

Post date: 
6/24/2014

 

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