In recent years, sales of “novelty” motorcycle helmets have skyrocketed across the country. While these helmets are hailed for being stylish and lightweight, they do not provide the same protection in motorcycle accidents as helmets certified by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is calling attention to this issue. The agency recently issued a proposal to address the use of novelty helmets which do not meet DOT safety standards.
According to a news release, the proposal defines what constitutes a motorcycle helmet and provides information that can help identify which ones do not meet federal safety standards.
Novelty Helmets May Give ‘False Sense of Security’ to Motorcyclists
Critical components of helmet structure include the thickness of its inner liner and outer shell. The liner’s ability to absorb the shock of a crash is important, too.
According to the NHTSA, these elements are often substandard on novelty helmets, leaving bikers vulnerable to serious brain injuries in a crash.
The agency cited one study which found that 56 percent of motorcyclists wearing novelty helmets sustained serious head injuries in accidents, but only 19 percent of those wearing DOT-certified helmets suffered similar brain traumas.
The legal challenge that officials face is that, as long as makers of novelty helmets do not make false claims about their purpose or usage, they are allowed to be sold to consumers. This means bikers are riding with a false sense of security.
Safety and the Spirit of Freedom: Finding a Balance
Only 19 states have laws mandating helmet use. Even those that do have statutes, including Florida, only require riders to meet certain age requirements before going helmet-free. (While some laws are certainly better than nothing, age restrictions do not necessarily eliminate the high risk for serious injuries.)
Opponents of helmet laws are clear: They want to feel the wind in their hair and appreciate their surroundings in full. Some also claim that helmets hinder safe riding because they can obstruct visibility and hearing. They argue that proper training and safe riding are the best ways for motorcyclists to protect themselves.
Proponents of helmet laws, on the other hand, cite numerous studies showing that helmets reduce the risk of severe injury and deaths from motorcycle accidents.
An Attorney Can Help Victims of Negligent Vehicle Drivers
The consequences of a brain injury can last a lifetime, reducing or eliminating a person’s ability to work or to provide the physical and emotional support that loved ones need. The hardship can be made worse if families cannot afford to pay for nurses or aides to help in the home. A family member may need to quit his or her job to take on the role of caregiver.
Unfortunately, if a vehicle driver chooses to drive drunk or text while driving and causes an accident, it may be impossible to avoid injury despite all of your motorcycle training and safe riding.
However, if you choose to wear a certified helmet, it will improve your chances of avoiding a life-threatening injury.
The Maher Law Firm has a long record of representing clients who have been seriously injured in motorcycle accidents. Our attorneys have seen how lives can be altered forever as a result of catastrophic injuries. We are committed to helping families to seek compensation when they have been injured by a negligent motorist.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury or loss from a motorcycle accident, contact us today for a free consultation.
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