How Much Does a Helmet Improve Survival in a Motorcycle Crash?

Potential Motorcycle Accident Causes

There are a variety of ways motorcycle accidents can happen, and not all of them involve another vehicle. 

Sometimes a crash can occur as a result of hitting loose gravel, losing balance while idling, or driving on a faulty tire. In all of these cases, wearing a helmet and other protective gear can dramatically reduce the chances of death or severe injury.

What Are the Benefits of Motorcycle Helmets?

For drivers and passengers alike, wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle decreases the chances of a fatality. This is not conjecture, as study after study yields the same conclusion: helmets save lives.

Helmets Protect Against Brain Injuries

Helmets guard against a variety of cranial-related injuries, including skull fractures and lacerations. However, the most critical injuries they defend against are brain injuries. 

Helmets are designed to cushion any impact, directing it away from the wearer’s head. The CDC states that helmets are capable of reducing the risk of head injuries by 69%.

Helmets Protect Against the Elements

Unlike cars, motorcycles do not have protective roofs or windows to shield their riders from the elements. Motorcyclists must be prepared to encounter all elements, including rain, snow, smoke, and insects. Fortunately, some helmets can protect users from all of the above and more.

Helmets Help with Visibility

Visibility is one of the most unnerving aspects of encountering a motorcyclist on the road and one of the biggest dangers for motorcyclists. 

Not only are motorcycles fairly compact compared to their vehicular counterparts, but they are also often difficult to spot from the confines of a car or truck. Wearing a helmet is a great way to improve visibility, making the wearer more noticeable to other drivers.

Helmet Safety Checklist

Unfortunately, wearing just any helmet is not enough. What if it doesn’t fit properly or was cheaply made? With this in mind, there are a few precautions to consider when selecting the proper helmet. 

A Good Helmet Should Fit Securely

Ensure the helmet fits snuggly. If it is too loose, the odds are that it will not sufficiently protect the wearer in the event of a crash. When selecting a helmet, it is a good idea to check the amount of padding and adjust accordingly.

Proper Chin Strap Alignment

A securely fitted helmet should not shift around the wearer’s head. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the chin strap is secure and properly aligned. Make sure the strap is fitted around the ears and properly positioned underneath the chin.

Adherence to Safety Standards

The helmet industry has its own safety standards. In California, the most common is DOT (Department of Transportation). DOT adherence is usually indicated by a sticker of certification on the helmet.

Certified helmets are required to meet safety regulations regarding:

• How well the helmet protects the head
• How securely the helmet fits on the head
• How secure the helmet is at the moment of impact
• How the helmet withstands impact

However, it is important to note that although helmets are certified in accordance with specific safety regulations, there is always a potential for error. For this reason, it is crucial to adhere to the rules of the road and understand your rights as a consumer.