If you ride a motorcycle, you know that getting around on two wheels is a unique experience that you just can’t replicate in a car, truck, or SUV. Unfortunately, the trade-off for the sense of freedom and exhilaration that riding a motorcycle brings is a significant reduction in safety, especially during crashes.
As a motorcyclist, you’re on your own when it comes to protecting yourself from injuries. Motorcycles have no built-in safety features, and there are no seat belts to restrain you or airbags to soften impacts. The best way you can protect yourself is by wearing riding gear, including a jacket, pants, gloves, boots, and—most importantly—a helmet.
Lowell Stanley Injury Lawyers’ team of Virginia motorcycle accident attorneys knows how important helmets are for the safety of riders, but we also know that they’re only at their most effective when they’re the right type, size, and fit. You can ensure your helmet is suitable by following these guidelines:
- Buy a helmet that meets industry standards. There are three major safety standards for motorcycle helmets: DOT, ECE 22.05, and Snell. Make sure any helmet you buy meets at least one of those standards.
- Get a helmet that fits. Helmets should fit snugly without being too tight. Most helmets can be adjusted using inserts and padding to create a perfect fit, but some may be bad fits from the beginning. Try on different helmets until you find one that fits comfortably while riding.
Helmets can significantly reduce the risk of head and brain injuries, but they can’t eliminate them completely. If you or someone you love was seriously hurt in a motorcycle crash, we may be able to help. Contact us today for a free consultation to find out how we can put our years of experience to work for your family.
