> As said above helmet usage is compulsory in NZ (As is yearly warrant of fitness for cars younger than 10 years old and six monthly check-up for cars over 10 years old).

Yes, this sounds pretty good. I think the situation on car safety is much better in the EU and other countries compared to the US.

> But if I ever have an accident I am sure glad that I wear one.

As will I. I do wear a bike helmet a lot. What pisses me off is that I can be fined $100+ for not wearing it when the guy next to me with a car that seems to be running on coal and two tires with questionable pressure goes scot free.