Heath man given Saved by the Helmet award after June motorcycle crash
A Heath man was recently recognized for wearing the helmet he credits with saving his life during a motorcycle crash earlier this year.
According to a Heath police crash report, 36-year-old Bret Henninger was driving west on Irving Wick Drive East on a motorcycle when a vehicle failed to yield when turning left onto River Oaks Drive, striking his vehicle on June 16.
The crash report indicated the driver of the other vehicle didn't appear to have any injuries while Henninger was believed to have serious injuries. He was taken to Grant Medical Center in Columbus for treatment.
Henninger said he was riding to get he and his wife some ice cream when the crash happened.
"I was going down Irving Wick. Like any other day, I'm enjoying the later night, light traffic, not as many cars on the road...," he said. When his motorcycle was struck, Henninger said he was ejected from the bike.
Between his helmet, an off-duty Heath firefighter who lived nearby and provided initial care, and his quick transport to Grant, Henninger said he believes he would've lost his leg and possibly even his life.
Henninger said he's already undergone two surgeries to repair a fractured tibia and fibula.
"The helmet prevented any head trauma. The doctors at Grant said if I didn't have my helmet on because of the type of impact I had with the severe impact on my leg, the impact on my head without a helmet, I wouldn't be here today," Henninger said. "They made it very clear the helmet did save my life."
His biggest takeaway from the crash was to encourage all motorcyclists to wear a helmet. He said they may not be cool or comfortable, but do save lives. He also asked motorists to look twice before they turn.
Earlier this month, Motorcycle Ohio presented Henninger with a Saved by the Helmet award with his wife, Stacy, and youngest daughter, Heidi, by his side. Henninger said he was humbled to receive the award after being nominated by his wife.
This article originally appeared on Newark Advocate: Heath man given Saved by the Helmet award after June motorcycle crash
