Using a Novelty Helmet (or Any Non Certified Helmet)
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, novelty helmets are nearly three times less effective at protecting against head injury than DOT (U.S. Department of Transportation) certified helmets. In novelty helmet design, safety takes a backseat to appearance. They are little more than fashion statements. While some almost seem plausible as helmets (but don't meet DOT standards), others (such as those resembling baseball caps) clearly don't. Only use DOT or Snell certified helmets. …show more content…
Exposure to summer temperatures, sunlight, perspiration, cleaning chemicals, and shock, places wear and tear on your helmet. According to Snell, you should replace your helmet after five years.
Always replace your helmet immediately after a motorcycle accident. The polystyrene inner layer remains partially compressed after the shock of an accident and lacks the same "give" of a new helmet. If your helmet was frequently dropped or fell from a great height, replace