A recent study found that drivers viewed cyclists wearing a helmet or safety vest as "less human."
This research could add fuel to the debate over bike helmet mandates in the US.
Researchers found that cyclists wearing helmets or vests are viewed as "less human" than those without any safety gear on.
GHI/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty ImagesBike helmet mandates might do more harm than goodThe research could add fuel to the debate over helmet mandates, which are in place in about 200 localities and more than 20 states across the US.
Notably, bike helmet usage and mandates are rare in cities with strong bike infrastructure and large numbers of cyclists, including in Europe.
Persons:
they'd, —, Colin Browne, Browne
Organizations:
Morning, Queensland University, Flinders University, Getty, National Transportation Safety Board, Washington Area Bicyclist Association
Locations:
Australia, Manhattan, New York City, Europe, Utrecht, Netherlands, Munster, Germany, Antwerp, Belgium