The length of time that a helmet is viable was determined by a consensus between the DOT Helmet manufacturers and the Snell Foundation. Hair oils, body fluids, environmental situations and normal wear and tear may cause a deterioration in performance. The Snell Foundation also advises that protective advances in the helmet technology also changes within five-year periods. Any DOT helmet that was involved in an accident should be replaced immediately, as some or all of its shock absorption qualities may have been used. Older DOT helmets, though they may appear to be in good shape, may have worn or frayed chin straps or hidden cracks.

If your motorcycle helmet is dropped, in most cases, your helmet is still good. Most manufacturers offer an inspection service and may, at their discretion, repair the helmet. The Snell Foundation recommends that if you suspect your DOT helmet is compromised, then replace it. If the helmet has been involved in an impact while in use, replace it.

Don’t buy a used motorcycle helmet it can compromise motorcycle helmet safety in a number of ways. First, you won’t know whether it’s been in a prior accident. If it has, chances are that the cushiony polystyrene layer inside that is designed to absorb the shock of an impact has already been compressed. This will make it worthless in protecting you in an accident. Also, age and exposure to certain elements can make the polystyrene lose its elasticity and become brittle, reducing the amount of protection it provides. Avoid excessive exposure to the sun. If you ride a motorcycle, chances are pretty high that your DOT helmet will be exposed to sunlight. But, you can extend the life of your helmet and maximize motorcycle helmet safety by parking in the shade and storing the helmet out of the sun when not in use. Sunlight damages polystyrene, causing it to wear and become brittle over time.

Avoid excessive exposure to gas fumes and other chemicals. Gas vapours are particularly harmful to polystyrene. Avoid hanging your DOT helmet near the gas tank. To maximize motorcycle helmet safety, also avoid storing it in a garage or other area where it will regularly be exposed to concentrated gas fumes and emissions. Avoid pointed or sharp objects. This seems obvious, but make sure you don’t hang your helmet on pointed hooks or antennae that could pierce the inner polystyrene layer.

Perhaps the most important motorcycle helmet safety step is to replace your DOT helmet at least every 5 years. Even if you take every possible step to extend the life of the helmet, the inner polystyrene layer will brittle with age, providing you with less protection the older it gets.

Don’t just take the first policy you see

When signing up for motorcycle insurance, you don’t even have to leave your home. Since the world is becoming more technologically inclined, you have the option of shopping online and getting quotes that you can compare in the privacy of your home. Make sure that you review multiple quotes before choosing one, because there is always a chance of a deal lurking out there that suit your requirements better. Be cautious when finding quotes online, because it may still be in your best interest to call an insurance agent. If you don’t call and dig, then you may not get the discounted prices and lower rates that you could be entitled to.

Factors that play a role in your premium cost

It is also important that you are aware of the set rate for the prices that you will pay. So, you have options when it comes to choosing the “correct plan.” There are a variety of factors that affect the premium cost; including but not limited to: your place of residence, your age, the type of motorcycle that you have, and your driving history. Motorcyclists will be given the option of choosing a comprehensive plan, or just simple liability. Some things to consider that could affect the type of plan you will need are: how often you ride, your riding habits, and whether or not you have passengers. Another important thing to remember is that people who have recently taken a Motorcycle Safety Foundation or course in military safety; or group members of Harley Owners Group, or AMA may be eligible for lower rates.

Be aware of local regulations on motorcycle insurance

Before you commit to buying motorcycle insurance, you may want to check local laws to find out the coverage plans offered. It is no secret that auto insurance is very important to have. Not only is it important because of safety; but it is required by law. But, when you have a motorcycle, and you have to get a specific type of insurance; it is important to research and learn the various factors that can affect the price and effectiveness of the insurance.