A helmet can be a motorcyclist’s best friend, with the ability to help prevent serious injury in the event of an accident. Choosing the right helmet is about function and safety, not sparkle and pizazz. Here we go over how to pick the perfect motorcycle helmet, to help you feel confident yet fully protected while venturing out onto the roadways. If you were involved in a motorcycle accident, you should contact a motorcycle accident lawyer in Atlanta, GA.
What are all the components of a motorcycle helmet?
The motorcycle helmet is composed of a hard outer shell, inner EPS (styrofoam), chin-strap and a soft fabric lining. Each of these materials serves a purpose, and is briefly outlined below:
- Sturdy outer shell – intended to absorb and lessen a force of impact.
- Inner EPS (styrofoam) – a lining helps soften head impact inside of the helmet, lessening the severity of shock to the brain.
- Chin strap (retention system) – to keep the helmet secure on the head while riding.
- Soft fabric lining – added in order to offer a proper fit and helps alleviate fatigue.
Does certification of a helmet brand important?
It is better off to purchase a helmet that is certified, upholds regulations and safety standards for motorcyclists. Many riders may be tempted to buy the fancy and shiney brand, but are disappointed to find out it offers minimal levels of protection. Be wary of fake certification stickers posted on the box or helmet itself. Do research to confirm the advertising matches the actual safety test results.
Can you tell me more about the testing behind motorcycle helmets?
Agencies that test helmets intend to certify that it will in fact help prevent your head from suffering a traumatic brain injury, and offer protection if your head endured an intense blow. The sudden impact due to a motorcycle accident has the potential to cause brain injuries that could be life-threatening and need immediate medical attention. Another common test of helmets includes the ability to disperse impact force over the hard outer shell with the chin strap holding it in place, without rotating or coming completely off.
What is the proper fit of a helmet?
A helmet should fit the rider snugly. You can compare the feeling to a quality handshake, where it is comfortable yet firm without pain or uncomfortability. The right helmet should encompass your head and face. If you were to stick a pinky finger between the helmet and forehead, only the very tip should fit. Your skin should move with the helmet if someone were to gently move it side to side. A quality helmet dealer may start with taking a measurement of your head. Invest the money in a quality helmet, as it could be the defining factor in why your life is saved one day after a motorcycle accident.
Can I reuse a helmet that has been through a minor crash?
A helmet can be damaged without any obvious visible signs. Sometimes riders take minor falls or drop their helmet unintentionally. It is not worth the risk to keep using a helmet that may have already endured some level of impact. Store your helmet in a place where the chances of it being dropped or falling off a shelf is minimal.
While many helmets can prevent you from injury, sometimes they are not enough to save you from serious physical damage. In cases like these, it is important to reach out to a motorcycle accident lawyer Dekalb County GA can trust.
Thank you to attorney Andrew Lynch, P.C. and his team for the above information on motorcycle helmets.