HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolution - 3017 - Endorsment-State Legislation-Mandates Motocycle Riders Wear Protective Helments - 01_26_1989Resolution #3017
January 26, 1989
Item #5-A
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RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, in 1977 Texas law was amended to no longer require all motor-
cycle riders to wear protective helmets; and
WHEREAS, in 1985 Texas law was amended to require the mandatory wear-
ing of seat belts in the front seats of automobiles; and
WHEREAS, motorcycle fatalities have increased by fifty percent (50%)
per year since 1976, a period in which motor vehicle fatalities in general
have increased by only five percent (5%) per year; and
WHEREAS, studies have shown that the 1985 seat belt legislation has
greatly increased the use of seat belts by automobile operators and passen-
gers; and
WHEREAS, studies have shown that more than ninety percent (90%) of the
motorcycle riders wear helmets in states where it is required by law; and
WHEREAS, studies show that when motorcycle accidents occur, the aver-
age hospital bill for riders not wearing helmets is nearly 150% higher than
for riders wearing helmets; and
WHEREAS, it is the recommendation of the Citizens Traffic Commission
of the City of Lubbock that the City Council of the City of Lubbock should
support a mandatory helmet law for motorcycle riders; NOW THEREFORE:
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LUBBOCK:
SECTION 1. THAT the City Council of the City of Lubbock, Texas,
hereby encourages all members of the Texas Legislature to support and vote
in favor of SB 41 requiring mandatory helmet wear by motorcycle riders as a
step toward improved safety and welfare for many Texas citizens.
SECTION 2. THAT the City Secretary of the City of Lubbock is autho-
rized and directed to cause a copy of this Resolution as finally passed to
be forwarded to the Texas Municipal League and to all Lubbock legislative
representatives.
Passed by the City Council this _26thday of January , 198§.
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ecretary
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6, C. McMINN, MAYOR
APPRO ED AS TO UNTEN APPROVED AS TO FORM:
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g n ri Director of Do Id G. Vandiver, First Assistant
Commu y Relations City Attorney