Let's see, canceled the helmet law in 2002, more cars on the road, more bikers and bikes!
Take off your helmet and ride in harms way sounds like a recipe for disaster to me!
Here around beautiful Los Angeles, I wouldn't go near a bike without a helmet on, but then I'm and 'Old Fart!' Wonder how I got this way? Being safe and sober, man, and riding for 55 years!!
Live to ride, and Ride to live!