Mandatory Helmet Law

Perhaps I missed the editorials in The Times that called for a complete prohibition of tobacco and alcohol use in California. Though no one denies the damage caused and the costs incurred from their use, their wide acceptance in society keeps such propositions unlikely. Instead, politicians and newspapers direct their efforts toward easy targets, such as the minority of motorcyclists.

I ride a motorcycle, and I wear my helmet most of the time. I take responsibility for my actions so I don’t think it’s the government’s duty to tell me when to wear a helmet. After former Gov. Deukmejian’s last veto of this bill, motorcyclist organizations, as promised, have acted to educate riders on the risk of riding without a helmet. Education is what will change people’s decisions and actions, not prohibition laws that often spawn resentment.

JEFF CARR

Hermosa Beach