What Should I Look for in a Motorcycle Helmet?
A helmet is the most important piece of safety gear that a motorcycle rider can wear. In fact, helmets are so effective at reducing the severity of injuries sustained in serious collisions that riders are required by law to wear one.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, all riders and passengers must wear a helmet when on a motorcycle in the state of Louisiana. Unfortunately, finding the best design can seem overwhelming due to the sheer number of helmets available.
Because the glue and foam elements of even the highest quality helmets can disintegrate over time, the Snell Foundation recommends purchasing a new helmet every five years. You should also replace your helmet if it takes a hit. If you get into a minor accident and the outside of the helmet looks fine, that does not necessarily mean the internal protective elements will do their job the next time there is a big impact.
Unfortunately, riding is an inherently risky activity, and even those who invest in all the latest safety gear can still end up in a devastating collision. If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident despite wearing a quality helmet, contact Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers.
A Baton Route personal injury lawyer on our team will evaluate your case, gather evidence, calculate damages, and help you fight for the maximum payout. If your case reaches trial, we have the litigation experience and resources to represent your interests in court. Schedule a free consultation by calling 800-522-6733.
Read on to learn about three factors to consider when purchasing a motorcycle helmet:
- Safety Rating
If a particular helmet meets the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) safety standards, it will have a DOT sticker on the back. Look for the DOT seal of approval—and ignore “counterfeit” stickers—to ensure you purchase a helmet that will actually protect your head when it matters most.
- Secure Chinstrap
A helmet will not do you any good if it flies off your head at the moment of impact. Look for helmets that have a sturdy chinstrap with rivets so you can be sure it will hold up in the event of a collision.
- Snug Fit
You do not want your helmet so tight that it causes headaches and distracts you from riding, but neither do you want it so loose that your head jostles around inside it. Consider the size and shape of your head when comparing the various options, and choose a helmet that provides a snug fit for optimum protection.
If you sustained serious injuries in a motorcycle accident despite wearing quality safety gear, contact Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers to learn if you have grounds for a claim. Call 800-522-6733 to schedule a free case evaluation with an accident attorney in Baton Rouge.
