WXYZ) - Michigan is seeing an increase in the number of bikers dying in motorcycle accidents.
Michigan State Police released statistics showing an 18% increase in motorcycle fatalities from 2011 to 2012. In 2011 there were 109 deaths investigated, and in 2012 there were 129.
The increase comes after a change in law. In April 2012, Michigan got rid of its mandatory helmet law for bikers.
Supporters of the law change said that preventing accidents is key to saving lives, not wearing helmets.
It is not clear yet whether the increase in deaths is due to the change in law. Information on the injuries that caused these deaths and helmet use has not yet been released.
Michigan State Police however have said that if you don’t wear a helmet you are about 40% more likely to die from a head injury in an accident.