Traditionally, motorcyclists have had the option of purchasing a full-faced helmet or an open-faced helmet. Modular helmets are gaining popularity in the motorcycling world with their ability to offer similar protection of a full-faced helmet paired with the convenience of an open-faced helmet. Proper use of modular helmets is a must for optimum protection.
Statistics
In 2008 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that motorcyclists are 37 times more likely to die in a crash than passengers in a car and times times more likely to be injured. This information supports the idea that wearing a helmet is paramount for rider safety. Many states have instituted laws requiring motorcyclists to wear a helmet. According to the NHTSA, helmets are credited for saving the lives of more than 1,800 individuals and could have prevented more than 800 fatalities had helmets been worn. Helmet use has increased from 48 percent to 67 percent between the years 2005 and 2009.
Compliance
Be certain that your helmet is at minimum DOT-compliant. The Department of Transportation requires that every helmet sold within the U.S. meet predetermined safety standards. DOT-compliant helmets have been tested and proven to meet these minimum requirements to protect the head in the event of a crash.
Certification
Snell is a nonprofit organization that tests the effectiveness of helmets to protect the head and brain in an accident. A helmet bearing this certification is likely to also be DOT-compliant. As a private organization, it is the responsibility of the helmet companies to send helmets in to be tested. Questions have been raised about why modular helmets do not yet have this certification. The answer is that none of the companies producing modular helmets have sent them in to Snell to be tested. As a result there is a lack of safety information available to the consumer.
Usage
Modular helmets have a face piece and chinbar that raise allowing you to grab a drink, a bite to eat, or visit without having to remove your helmet. While this is convenient, you need to be sure that the face piece and chinbar are locked securely down when riding your motorcycle. If not, they pose a greater risk for face injury, neck injury due to increased pressure on the neck, and extra leverage in a crash.
Benefits
Modular helmets will be of particular interest to you if you wear eye glasses. You benefit from the ability to comfortably wear your glasses with this style of helmet. If you prefer an open-faced helmet ,this helmet offers additional protection with the same convenience as the open-face style. With the raisable face and chinbar, you have greater freedom to socialize and grab a snack or drink with little inconvenience.
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