Motorcycle Helmet Safety
Motorcycle Helmet Safety
Motorcycle enthusiasts enjoy the thrill of the road, wind, and open air. They often enjoy the freedom and speed motorcycles provide. In recent years, many steps have been made to educate motorcyclists on the importance of safety. Unlike cars, motorcycles provide little protection in the case of collisions or other accidents while on the road. While clothing such as protective jackets, leggings, and boots help protect riders from injury, nothing provides more protection against serious injury than the motorcycle helmet.
It is important for anyone riding a motorcycle to choose a proper helmet, and it is important for manufacturers and vendors to provide the highest-quality products, free of defects. Studies show that helmets greatly help reduce the number of serious injuries and deaths in motorcycle accidents. That said, not all helmets are “created equal” and there are specific qualities that should be taken into consideration when choosing one for your protection.
Motorcycle Helmet Tips:
When choosing a motorcycle helmet, it is wise to test several different types and brands before purchase. The discerning rider should look for:
Adequate weight/feel of the helmet. Helmets weighing less than one pound typically do not provide enough material for adequate protection. Look for a helmet with more significant weight, but do not choose one that severely limits your range of motion.
Inner liner of at least one-inch thickness. Federal safety standards require at least an inch thickness of polystyrene foam. Helmets with soft foam or little padding will not provide enough protection in the event of a crash or collision.
Proper motorcycle helmets will have sturdy chinstraps with solid rivets. Before purchase, examine the quality of the strap and the securing mechanisms to ensure solid construction.
It is important to choose helmets with safe design. Objects such as spikes, decorations, or other protruding objects are unsafe. Visors are acceptable, but as a general rule, no object should protrude more than two-tenths of an inch from the helmet.
Helmets should feature the appropriate compliance stickers on the outside and inside. It is important to note that some vendors provide imitation safety stickers on novelty helmets that do not comply with federal safety standards.
Although many motorcycle enthusiasts take pride in their individuality and free spirit, safety should always be practiced when operating a motorcycle. By purchasing the proper helmet, cyclists and their passengers can make sure they live to ride another day.
For more information, visit the motorcycle helmet safety lawyer of the Law Offices of Habush Habush & Rottier, S.C.
Joseph Devine
