http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2011-07-04
http://www.thedenverchannel.com/automotive
http://www.syracuse.com/news/index.ssf/2011/07
www.darwinawards.com A Parish (Onondaga, NY) man was participating in a motorcycle helmet protest ride when killed via over-the-handlebars, the motorcycle accident injured his head... Town of Onondaga, NY – A Parish man who was participating in a motorcycle helmet protest ride was killed this afternoon when he went over the handlebars of his motorcycle and injured his head on the pavement, state police said.

Philip A. Contos, 55, of 45 East St., Parish, was not wearing a helmet while driving a 1983 Harley Davidson motorcycle south on Route 11 in Onondaga with a large group of other motorcyclists, troopers said.

About 1:30 p.m., troopers said, Contos hit his brakes, the motorcycle fishtailed and went out of control and Contos went over the handlebars.

Contos was taken to Upstate University Hospital where he was pronounced dead, troopers said.

Evidence at the scene and information from the attending physician indicate Contos would have survived if he had been wearing a Department of Transportation approved helmet, troopers said.

The protest in which Contos was riding was organized by American Bikers Aimed Towards Education, Trooper Jack Keller said.

Submitted on 07/02/2011

Submitted by: Corey M
Reference: Syracuse.com July 02, 2011

Copyright © 2011 DarwinAwards.com

James said:
Definitely Keep: Darwin Award
As common as helmetless accidents are, I will vote DA on this one because of the circumstances. The victim was obviously enabled by an organization that feels there is too much "government interference" with motorcycle safety laws. The late Mr. Contos proved the government's point. WHAT A WAY to cap off a "helmet protest" ride!!!

Bruce said:
Definitely Keep: Darwin Award
Flipping over he handlebars as described is an extremely common type of accident and one that almost always results in a head injury unless you're wearing a helmet. And it can happen at extremely slow speeds to boot. I agree with James - given the circumstances behind this accident I think it's definitely deserving of a DA. Thanks Corey!

The Darwin Awards Gift Shop

The Darwin Awards Condom Keep yourself out of the gene pool! A condom in a matchbook, useful for emergency contraception, bachelor parties, frat parties, and important rites of passage. LOADED inside and out with funny quotes and stories. Everyone loves this item! Friends don't let friends reproduce! $13 for Pack of 4