Wading into the helmet argument, I've done a forward flip off the front of my handlebars while biking on the pathway over the Glenmore reservoir when the wheel got stuck in one of the metal rails that runs down the path.
I fractured my wrist and skidded along the top of my helmeted head. I am totally glad I was wearing one that day.
There have been times that I've gone helmet-less to work etc. because I wouldn't have time to shower and my helmet hair is like bed-head x1000 but I definitely go much slower and am completely way more conservative and I just don't like that feeling of impending death. Even 30 km/hour on a regular city street or intersecting with the side of a car can end it right away.
The key is just finding a helmet that fits you, that is light enough (although the prices of lighter performance helmets are ridiculous), and gives you good comfort and visibility.
I have a few but mostly used a Dux Helm with built-in retractable lens most of the time. That way I don't need to fumble with sunglasses and I can also wear regular glasses behind them.
