Wearing a helmet can drastically improve your safety when you operate a motorcycle. However, not all helmets can provide an optimal level of protection.
When you understand what a properly fitted option looks and feels like, you can enhance your protection.
Find a helmet
A helmet that is too big for your head can wobble around and cause distraction and discomfort. Even worse, if you have an accident your helmet could fly off and provide little to no barrier from injury. According to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a well-fitted helmet will fit snuggly, but the pressure should feel even around the circumference of your head. The pressure should not create any discomfort but provide enough to prevent the helmet from moving when you shake your head.
There are resources online to help you identify the most effective ways to measure your head. You can also find information about how to properly adjust your helmet, which is something you should do regularly. Learning about different helmet styles can also help you select a product that will work the best for the type of riding you like to do.
Replace a helmet
A motorcycle crash is a serious situation that could leave you shaken even if it was relatively minor. Anytime your helmet hits the ground or impacts something at all, you should replace it right away. Manufacturers engineer elements inside a helmet to protect your head. If these elements weaken at all they might not have what it takes to provide that level of protection again. You should replace worn-out helmets even if they have not been in an accident.
Taking care of your head and wearing proper protective equipment can improve your safety and enjoyment on a motorcycle.