Wearing a Motorcycle Helmet Can Save Your Life
National Safety Month is technically over, but we’re still taking the time to reflect on safety precautions. When you’re on the road this summer, you should be wary of traffic rules to avoid collisions and accidents. Everyone can do their part to spread safety.
And this time, motorcyclists, you’re up! It’s time to talk about a highly-contested topic among motorcycle riders: helmets.
Helmet Safety Is the Law
According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation (DOT), the law requires helmets to be worn. In addition to this, the helmet should have a polystyrene foam layer for protection. The manufacturers should attach a DOT sticker or symbol to show compliance with this rule.
Head Injuries
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) encourages helmet-wearing and confirms that helmets reduce the risk of death by reducing the risk of head injuries. Riding a motorcycle without head protection poses many dangers.
The Mayo Clinic reports that traumatic brain injuries can result from huge blows to the head. In motorcycle accidents, there is no outer protection from a car, making your head more vulnerable to these injuries. This means that your head is more likely to sustain a blow that can cause a concussion or even death when you do not wear a helmet.
How Does a Helmet Help?
There are some people who believe that helmets don’t help at all. This mostly comes from misunderstanding. Helmets seem like simple objects, but they are made with safety in mind. Let’s take a look at what makes up a helmet.
According to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, the four main components of a helmet include an outer shell, an impact-absorbing liner, comfort padding, and a retention system (chin strap). The outer layer is designed to compress when hit, decreasing the impact being applied to your head by dispersing the pressure. The second liner works to decrease shock and pressure as well.
The comfort padding works to keep your head comfortable when riding. It also helps the helmet to fit more snugly, proving optimum performance. The chin strap keeps the helmet strapped onto your head. This retention system, when fastened appropriately, keeps the helmet in place during impact.
It is important to take the time to choose a helmet that fits correctly. In addition, you should always inspect your helmet for cracks, tears, breaks, or other damages. Any defects will decrease the likelihood of a helmet helping you when you need it most. Be sure to replace your helmet if it has any defects.
If Your Accident Wasn’t Your Fault
A helmet may not save you from all injuries. Accidents can happen and when they do, you need the best representation. We at Rhine Law Firm, P.C., can help. With specialties in personal injury and product liability, we have the expertise to seek the compensation you deserve in motorcycle accidents. Feel free to call us at (910) 772-9960 for a free initial consultation.
