Safety while on the road is the number one priority to many. Those who are motorcyclists are at greater risk on the road when it comes to safety. It is important to wear the proper gear to protect yourself in case you are involved in a collision.
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Protective Gear Guide recommends the following essential items for motorcyclists:
Among these, helmets are one of the most important and life-saving pieces of gear. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requires all motorcycle helmets sold in the United States to meet the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 218. But how can you ensure your helmet complies with this standard? Here are some key factors to check:
Weight: Helmets meeting FMVSS No. 218 typically weigh about three pounds. Helmets weighing one pound or less do not meet the standard.
Inner Liner Thickness: A compliant helmet should have an expanded polystyrene inner liner at least 3/4 inches thick.
Chin Strap and Rivets: Look for a sturdy chin strap and solid rivets for proper retention.
DOT Certification Label: Check for a DOT certification label on the outside of helmets manufactured on or after May 13, 2013.
Manufacturer’s Label*: Inside the helmet, there should be a label with the manufacturer’s name, size, date of manufacture, and care instructions.
*It’s important to note that a DOT label on the back and a manufacturer’s label inside do not always guarantee compliance, as counterfeit labels exist. For more details on identifying unsafe helmets, refer to this NHTSA guide on unsafe motorcycle helmets (PDF).
By following these guidelines and investing in high-quality protective gear, motorcyclists can significantly reduce their risk of injury and stay safer on the road.
