Costs of hospitalization of 331 motorcyclists at three regional trauma centers in Illinois showed that those with head injuries incurred greater costs than those without head injuries, and represented about 25% of the cases. Among those who died, 42% received injuries to the head. About 25% of the cases has the hospital costs paid by public aid funds.

An estimate was made of savings in medical and hospitalization costs if all motorcyclists wore helmets.

An improved reporting system for motorcycle collisions is needed including the use or nonuse of helmets. Information on nonfatal disabling injuries is sorely lacking. Helmet legislation would provide increased use from which would be derived large reductions in injuries and costs.