PITTSBURGH -- The following report by Channel 4 Action News reporter Paul Van Osdol first aired on Channel 4 Action News at 5 p.m. on June 12.

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Pennsylvania's mandatory helmet law was repealed in September 2003.

Since then, the number of deaths involving motorcycle accidents has increased by a third.

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger -- who has been outspoken about his choice not to wear a helmet -- is undergoing surgery after a motorcycle accident on Monday morning, doctors at Mercy Hospital said.

While Roethlisberger is in serious condition, he fared better than many motorcycle drivers who choose not to don a helmet.

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, of a total of 156 deaths in 2003, 118 motorcycle drivers wore a helmet, 27 did not and in 11 case it was unknown.

In 2004, of a reported 158 deaths, 74 drivers were wearing a helmet, 70 were not and in 14 cases it was unknown.

In 2005, of a total of 106 deaths, 106 drivers were wearing a helmet, 87 were not and in 12 cases it was not known.

Even though in May 2005 he got a lecture from coach Bill Cowher, Roethlisberger said he wouldn't be getting off his ride.

"He talked about being a risk taker, and I'm not really a risk taker," Roethlisberger said at the time. "I'm pretty conservative and laid back. I'll just continue to be careful. I told him we don't ever ride alone, we always ride in a group of people, and I think it makes it even more safe."

Roethlisberger said he only rides in groups, which he said is safer than going alone, and will decide for himself whether he wants to wear a helmet.

"Obviously, Pennsylvania doesn't think people need to," Roethlisberger said.

Police are still investigating Monday's accident and it is unclear whether charges will be filed.

The investigation will take at least a week.

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