Petition to the Missouri State Legislature: Reinstate Missouri’s Universal Motorcycle Helmet Law To:

 The Missouri State Legislature Subject: Reinstating Universal Helmet Requirements for All Motorcycle Riders and Passengers 

We, the undersigned, call on the Missouri State Legislature to reinstate the universal motorcycle helmet law in Missouri.

We urge lawmakers to require all riders and passengers — regardless of age or insurance status — to wear DOT-approved helmets while operating or riding on a motorcycle on Missouri’s public roads.

 A Personal Message from the Petition Creator My name is Kayla Zink, and I’m from Seymour, Missouri. I started this petition because I personally witnessed a motorcycle accident involving a rider who wasn’t wearing a helmet. The outcome was tragic. The scene, the loss, and the pain are something I will carry with me forever. 

What hurts most is knowing my children also witnessed it — and they still suffer the emotional consequences of what they saw.

I won't go into great detail but I want you to really think about what happens when someone is driving 70 miles per hour on a motorcycle and in a split second they hit pavement, with no protection. When driving a vehicle we are required by law to wear a seat belt, so why shouldn't someone who isn't protected at all not have to as well?

 This kind of trauma is preventable. We must protect not only riders but also the families, bystanders, and first responders who live with the aftermath of these avoidable tragedies.

The Data Is Clear

 • In 2023, Missouri reported 174 motorcycle deaths — the highest number ever recorded in our state.

• 73 of those who died were not wearing helmets.

• Helmets reduce the risk of death by 37% and the risk of serious head injury by 69%.

 • Since the helmet law was weakened in 2020, motorcycle fatalities have risen by nearly 50%.

 • The financial burden of unhelmeted crashes falls heavily on public healthcare systems and taxpayers, especially for long-term care.

Sources: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Missouri Department of Transportation, St. Louis Public Radio, MissouriNet

Why This Law Matters: Motorcycle crashes don’t just affect the rider.

 They leave lasting scars on:

 • Families who lose loved ones

• Witnesses — including children — who suffer lasting trauma

• First responders and healthcare workers

 • Taxpayers who cover medical and emergency costs This is not just about personal freedom. It’s about public safety, compassion, and responsibility.

 What We’re Asking Missouri Lawmakers to Do

 1. Reinstate Missouri’s universal helmet law with no exemptions based on age or insurance.

 2. Require DOT-compliant helmets for all riders and passengers.

 3. Protect Missourians from preventable deaths, life-altering injuries, and emotional trauma.

Add Your Name — Let’s Make Missouri’s Roads Safer for Everyone

 We urge Missouri lawmakers to put safety before politics and lives before convenience.

Sign this petition to help save lives, prevent tragedy, and protect our communities. Together, we can make a difference.

Sincerely, Kayla Zink

 Seymour, Missouri

 Phone: 417-924-6981

 Email: Kayla.wilcox4@gmail.com