Motorcycle helmets are becoming stronger than ever, thanks largely to the evolving technology of the special foam inside them. As a result, it’s understandable if you’re wondering whether you still need to replace your helmet if you’ve been involved in a crash, or is a helmet strong enough to “keep going”?
If your helmet struck the ground, a vehicle or some other unforgiving surface, many experts recommend that you replace this safety gear. Even if the outside appears fine, you have no way of knowing what has happened inside the helmet.
The interior protective elements of a helmet
Motorcycle helmets contain a crushable foam. There are two types: expanded polystyrene (EPS) and expanded polypropylene (EPP). EPS foam is designed to sustain one impact. It typically is too damaged after a single crash to provide appropriate protection moving forward.
EPP foam is more resilient. It regains its shape and therefore its protective quality after an impact better than EPS foam. That’s why helmets that use this substance are often marketed as being able to survive multiple impacts.
The problem is that you can never know for certain how damaged your protective foam is after a crash. You also need to consider possible damage to the casing that surrounds the foam. This casing, like the foam, isn’t visible. Therefore, you have no way of knowing whether the impact has caused it to crack. Cracks in the casing can minimize your helmet’s ability to protect your head.
What should you do with your old helmet?
It’s always safest to buy a new helmet if you’ve been in a crash if your head struck something as a result of the impact. It’s also important to dispose of your old one properly. Don’t give it away, since no one should risk using it. Don’t throw it away either. It’s best to find a place that takes helmets for recycling — but not until you know whether you need it as evidence for your claim for compensation from the at-fault driver.
The cost of a new helmet is likely among the least of your expenses if you’ve suffered injuries in a crash. It’s important to make sure you know the full extent of your expenses and damages to help ensure that you get the settlement to which you’re entitled. Seeking experienced legal guidance can help.