Not just for looks, the gear motorcyclists wear plays a vital role in protecting them in the event of a crash. Motorcycle riders lack the same exterior protections offered to vehicle occupants to safeguard them from cuts, abrasions, head trauma and other such injuries. In addition to the pants, long sleeves, close-toed shoes, and goggles or glasses they choose to wear, having the right helmet is an essential safety precaution for motorcyclists.
According to the New York State Department of Health, among the causes of fatal motorcycle accident injuries, head trauma ranks first. Further, riders who do not wear helmets have a three-times greater risk of suffering brain injuries in collisions than those who wear helmets while riding.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, having the right helmet may protect people from suffering fatal injuries. In choosing the right helmet for them, motorcyclists should consider factors including the shape and size of their heads, as well as the features offered by different styles of helmet.
When looking for the right shape of helmet, riders should first consider the shapes of their own heads. They may use a mirror or ask a friend for help in order to determine if their heads are round ovals, long ovals or intermediate ovals. Choosing a helmet suited for their head shape may help motorcyclists ensure a proper fit.
In addition to selecting the right shape helmet, riders must also choose correctly sized helmets. Ill-fitted helmets may not completely fit the head or move around too much to provide adequate protection. Riders may consider measuring their heads prior to shopping for a helmet in order to cross-reference their measurements with helmet sizing charts in order to select an appropriately fitted helmet.
Motorcycle helmets come in a variety of styles, each of which offers different safety features to riders. When selecting a helmet style, it may help motorcyclists to consider the type of bikes they operate and the types of riding they do.