2 Tips for Choosing the Safest Motorcycle Helmet

If you have a motorcycle, then you likely know that motorcycle accidents are somewhat common. Most of these accidents are caused by motorists who fail to see or recognize the motorcycle. This means that you can likely sue the driver of the vehicle if they failed to observe your right of way. While this is true, you will want to make sure that you can make it out of an accident with your life.

Unfortunately, 4,000 people die each year in motorcycle accidents, and most deaths are caused by head injuries. While a helmet can substantially reduce your risk of a head injury, you will need to make sure that you purchase the right one. Keep reading to learn about some important motorcycle helmet tips that may save your life.

Consider the Shape of Your Head

You may not know this, but motorcycle helmets are made with different head shapes in mind. This is why one helmet may place too much pressure on your forehead or temples when you wear it for too long. If a helmet does force a good deal of pressure against one area of your head, then it probably does not fit correctly around the crown. To work properly, a motorcycle helmet should fit tight around all areas of the head without feeling uncomfortable. The helmet also should not leave open gaps around any part of the head. 

To find a helmet that fits correctly, you will need to first determine the shape of your head. There are three common shapes. Narrow or oval, neutral or rounded oval, and round are the three shapes. Ask a friend to look down at the top of your head to describe the shape. An oval head will be egg-shaped, and a round one will be circular. A neutral shape will be seen if your head is slightly longer from the forehead to the back of your head and shorter from ear to ear. Most people have neutral shaped heads, so start with helmets for this head type if you are not sure about shape.

To locate helmets for your head shape, consult an online chart or ask your local motorcycle gear retailer to recommend the best option for you. Keep in mind that helmets will come in small, medium, large, and extra large sizes as well. Women's helmets are typically small and medium, while men's are large and extra large. 

Choose the Right Materials

Most motorcycle helmets have three different layers that make up the helmet. The layers consist of the outer shell, the foam lining, and the comfort foam. The comfort foam layer is the least important part of the helmet, since it provides comfort and little safety. However, you should opt for a foam that wicks sweat away from the head so your helmet does not slip after it is secured. Urethane and polyester foams are good for this.

The materials that make up the outer helmet shell and the foam lining are extremely important when it comes to safety. The outer shell is meant to stay intact and strong against impacts. Fiberglass composite materials are a good choice, but expensive and strong options made out of carbon fiber or kevlar are much better. When it comes to the foam lining, you want a material that will crush. This is important so that your head does not sustain as much pressure and stress during an accident. High-density polystyrene foam is used in most helmets. For the best protection, look for helmets that offer two or more layers of this material. During an accident, force transfers from the hard outer shell to the foam lining. If there is more dense foam to absorb the shock, your head is less likely to become injured. 

For more information on how to be safer on the road and avoid legal issues, consult resources like Scherline And Associates.