Like a number of other states, Georgia requires motorcycle riders to wear helmets. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, helmets saved an estimated 1,859 people in 2016 and an additional 802 lives may have been saved if all motorcycle riders wore helmets. In order to help protect themselves in the event of a motorcycle accident, it is important for riders to choose and wear the right helmet.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, riders should wear motorcycle helmets that fit appropriately and meet the state and federal safety standards. No one’s head is shaped the same as another’s. Thus, when choosing a helmet, people should consider the size and shape of their heads. An appropriately fitted helmet provides even pressure around the head, without placing too much or uncomfortable tension on pressure points in the head. Additionally, the helmet should not move when riders shake their heads.
Depending on the type of riding they do and the type of motorcycle they ride, people may choose from styles including full face, modular, dual-sport, off-road, high visibility, open-face or half helmets. Each type offers varying levels of comfort, airflow and safety.
When motorcycle riders purchase helmets, they should keep in mind that not all helmets sold on the market meet the necessary safety standards. Some novelty helmets may fail to provide adequate protection in the event of a crash. Therefore, when shopping for a helmet, riders should look for those that have the U.S. Department of Transportation symbol, which indicates it meets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard.
