Libertarians, helmet law

No sooner had Scott Moyers identified himself on the phone than I knew why he was calling. The city council was getting ready to consider a helmet law for scooter riders in Cape. So, if you're a reporter looking for someone to oppose helmet laws, who you gonna call? Libertarians. It was a no-brainer. (No offense, Scott).

Helmet laws are as close as it gets to a black and white issue for Libertarians. We're opposed. If I had a scooter, I'd feel the same as I would about being forced to wear a bicycle helmet. I'm not a kid anymore, and I feel like the decision should be mine, despite several close calls I've had with drowsy or distracted drivers almost hitting me. The road is an unsafe place, even for cars. Libertarians do give a nod to the argument that uninsured accident victims can cost taxpayers money.

I won't be surprised or angry if the city council passes a helmet law. I bet you a nickel they do. Long ago I came to the conclusion that people of all political stripes want the world to be a better place. We just have different ways of getting there. If you support the helmet law, please don't be angry with me. You're probably going to get your way.

GREG TLAPEK, Cape Girardeau