Helmet law defeated in Illinois Senate

SPRINGFIELD -- Legislation requiring helmets for motorcyclists has crashed in the Senate.

Chicago Democratic Sen. Donne (DAH'-nee) Trotter argues helmets are required in 47 states and statistics show they greatly reduce the number of deaths and head injuries in accidents.

Trotter has driven a motorcycle for more than four decades. But the measure failed 14-42.

Opponents argue wearing a helmet infringes on personal rights. They say bikers should decide whether they want to put on a cap.

Helmet laws have repeatedly failed in Illinois, which adopted a seat belt law in 1985.