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Story: Quarterback's
Accident Revs Motorcycle Helmet Debate, 06/19/06
1. Who is Ben Roethlisberger and why is he in the news right now?
2. What legal consequences will Roethlisberger face?
3. What are some state laws regarding helmets?
4. What is the nationwide motorcycle fatality rate?
5. How many states require the use of safety or seat belts?
6. What do critics of helmet and other safety laws argue? Why do they think such laws are not necessary or good?
Discussion Activity (more research might be needed): 1. What do you think? Should states require that motorcyclists wear helmets? Why or why not? 2. What are the rules regarding the use of helmets, for motorcycles and bicycles, or seat belts in your state or community? Do you agree with them? 3. Critics argue that there are lots of things that are dangerous that the government does not regulate. What is your opinion of this argument? Are there additional laws that should be created to "protect" people? What might they be? How popular do you think they would be? What are the benefits or challenges of such legislation? Write a 300-500 word essay on any of these topics providing clear examples. Send your completed editorial to NewsHour Extra (extra@newshour.org). Exceptional essays might be published on our Web site. |