Motorcycle riding is a fun and exciting way to explore North Carolina. But with the allure of the open road, it’s important to remember that every time you get on your bike, there’s a chance you could be in a serious accident. Even the best riders can’t control the behavior of other drivers or completely avoid dangerous road conditions.
That’s why it’s vitally important that every North Carolina rider wear the right protective gear every time they hit the road. And the most important piece of protective gear is a DOT-approved helmet. A DOT-approved helmet meets safety standards designed to keep you safe in the event of an accident. Here are some of the components of a DOT-approved helmet.
Thick Inner Layer
The Federal safety standard for the inner layer of a helmet is a one-inch thick polystyrene foam. Make sure your helmet has a thick and firm inner layer to protect you in the event you go down.
Sturdy Chin Strap
Your helmet is only useful to you if it stays on your head. DOT-approved helmets have a sturdy chinstrap secured by solid rivets.
Helmet Weight
Unsafe helmets usually weigh less than one pound. Although these lighter helmets may be more comfortable, they won’t adequately protect you in the event of an accident. Helmets meeting DOT standards usually weight at least three pounds.
Design
The DOT standard for helmet design does not allow for anything to extend further than two-tenths of an inch from the surface of the helmet. Visors are okay. Spiked mohawks are not.
North Carolina is one of thirteen states that require every rider and passenger, regardless of age, to wear a motorcycle helmet when on a bike. Even if you’re riding in a state that doesn’t require it, you should wear one. And make sure it’s DOT-approved.