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Motorcycle helmets are essential for any biker. According to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, a study found that helmets were 67 percent effective in preventing brain injuries resulting from motorcycle accidents. If you were in a motorcycle accident recently, you may be wondering whether you should replace your helmet. There is no substitute for reading manufacturer directions and doing your independent research but read on to learn more.
According to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF), you should always replace your helmet if it was involved in an accident because it may have absorbed some “impact shock.” Even if your helmet appears completely undamaged, it may still have been affected in some way.
A helmet that is damaged or compromised could be less effective in a potential future accident or incident. That is why it’s recommended to stay on the safe side after an accident and replace your motorcycle helmet as soon as possible.
Motorcycle helmets should not only be replaced after an accident. The MSF also recommends replacing your helmet every couple of years to ensure it’s in the best condition because helmets can deteriorate over time. According to the MSF, “protective qualities may deteriorate with time and wear.” For example, “[t]he chin strap may fray or loosen at its attaching points; the shell could be chipped or damaged.”
In New York, as in most states, wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle is required by law. Helmets must meet U.S. Department of Transportation federal motor vehicle safety standards.
Mandatory helmet laws for motorcyclists are in place to protect bikers in the event of a collision. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), studies have shown that helmet laws tend to increase helmet use and subsequently reduce head injuries and fatalities.
Taking good care of your motorcycle helmet can also go a long way toward maintaining its integrity. According to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, this includes storing your helmet in a flat, secure location that is not in proximity to gasoline, cleaning fluids, exhaust fumes, or excessive heat. The area where you store your helmet matters because fumes, heat, and certain substances can degrade helmet materials.
According to the MSF, bikers should read the manufacturer’s instructions included with their motorcycle helmet to clean and care for it. Typically, you should use mild soap and avoid harsh cleaning liquids when cleaning your helmet and face shield.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t hesitate to call William Mattar law offices. Our motorcycle accident attorneys are standing by and ready to help you get maximum compensation. Our team can answer your questions at any time — contact us at (844) 444-4444 to speak to an attorney or schedule a free initial consultation.
William Mattar
Attorney at Law
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