Do you love riding your motorcycle on the open road? Do you enjoy the thrill and freedom of cruising on two wheels? If so, you probably know how important it is to protect your head from injury in case of an accident. But do you know what kind of helmet you should wear? Not all helmets are created equal, and some may not offer the level of safety you need. That’s why you should look for a DOT approved helmet.
A DOT approved helmet is a helmet that meets the safety standards set by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). These standards are based on rigorous tests that measure the helmet’s ability to withstand impact, penetration, and retention. A DOT approved helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by up to 69% and the risk of death by up to 37%.
But how do you know if a helmet is DOT approved? And what are the benefits of wearing one? In this blog post, we will answer these questions and more. We will also give you some tips on how to choose the right helmet for your needs and preferences. Here is what we will cover:
- What does DOT mean and how does it work?
- What are the benefits of wearing a DOT approved helmet?
- How to identify a DOT approved helmet?
- How to choose the right helmet size, shape, and style?
- How to take care of your helmet and when to replace it?
By the end of this post, you will have a better understanding of what a DOT approved helmet is and why you should wear one. You will also be able to find the best helmet for you and enjoy a safer and more comfortable ride.
Let’s get started!
What does DOT mean and how does it work?
DOT stands for the U.S. Department of Transportation, the federal agency that regulates the transportation industry. DOT has a specific set of safety standards for helmets used in motorcycling, known as the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 218.
The FMVSS 218 specifies the minimum performance requirements for helmets, such as:
- Impact attenuation: the helmet must absorb a certain amount of energy when hit by a blunt object at a high speed.
- Penetration resistance: the helmet must prevent a sharp object from piercing through the shell and the liner.
- Retention system: the helmet must have a chin strap that can withstand a certain amount of force without breaking or stretching.
- Peripheral vision: the helmet must provide a minimum horizontal field of view of 105 degrees to each side.
The DOT does not test and approve helmets itself. Instead, it relies on a self-certification process, where the helmet manufacturers are responsible for conducting the tests and ensuring that their helmets meet the standard. The manufacturers must also label their helmets with the DOT symbol on the outside back, along with the manufacturer’s name, model designation, and other information.
The DOT also conducts random tests on some helmets to verify their compliance with the standard. If a helmet fails the test, the DOT can issue a recall and require the manufacturer to remove the helmet from the market. The DOT publishes the results of its tests on an online database.
What are the benefits of wearing a DOT approved helmet?
Wearing a DOT approved helmet can provide you with many benefits, such as:
- Protecting your head from serious injury or death in case of an accident. According to a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by up to 69% and the risk of death by up to 37%.
- Improving your visibility and hearing on the road. A DOT approved helmet can block out wind noise and enhance your hearing of other vehicles and sounds. It can also shield your eyes from sun glare, dust, rain, and insects, and allow you to see better and farther.
- Increasing your comfort and enjoyment of riding. A DOT approved helmet can fit snugly and securely on your head, and prevent it from moving around or flying off. It can also keep your head warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather, and reduce fatigue and stress.
- Saving you money and hassle in the long run. A DOT approved helmet can last longer and perform better than a non-approved helmet, and save you from buying a new one frequently. It can also help you avoid fines and penalties for violating helmet laws in some states and countries.
How to identify a DOT approved helmet?
To identify a DOT approved helmet, you should look for the following features:
- The DOT symbol on the outside back of the helmet. This symbol indicates that the helmet meets the FMVSS 218 standard and has been self-certified by the manufacturer. The symbol should be permanent, legible, and visible, and should not be covered by any stickers or decals.
- The manufacturer’s information on the inside of the helmet. This information should include the manufacturer’s name, model designation, size, month and year of manufacture, and instructions for care and use. The information should be clear, accurate, and easy to read.
- The helmet’s weight, design, and construction. A DOT approved helmet should weigh about three pounds, and should have a thick inner liner of polystyrene foam that is about one inch thick. The helmet should also have a sturdy shell that is made of durable materials, such as fiberglass, plastic, or carbon fiber. The helmet should not have any protruding elements, such as spikes, horns, or mohawks, that can compromise its safety.
How to choose the right helmet size, shape, and style?
To choose the right helmet for you, you should consider the following factors:
- Your head size and shape. You should measure your head circumference at the widest point above your eyebrows and ears, and compare it with the helmet size chart provided by the manufacturer. You should also determine your head shape, whether it is round, oval, or intermediate, and find a helmet that matches it. A helmet that is too big or too small, or that does not fit your head shape, can be uncomfortable and unsafe.
- Your personal preference and style. You should choose a helmet that suits your taste and personality, and that matches your motorcycle and riding gear. You can choose from different types of helmets, such as full-face, open-face, modular, half, or off-road, depending on your level of protection, comfort, and convenience. You can also choose from different colors, patterns, and graphics, to express your individuality and style.
- Your budget and quality. You should choose a helmet that is affordable and within your budget, but that does not compromise on quality and safety. You should look for a helmet that is made of high-quality materials, that has good reviews and ratings, and that has a warranty and customer service. You should avoid buying a helmet that is cheap, poorly made, or counterfeit, as it may not protect you adequately.
How to take care of your helmet and when to replace it?
To take care of your helmet and extend its lifespan, you should follow these tips:
- Clean your helmet regularly with mild soap and water, and dry it with a soft cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasives, as they may damage the helmet’s materials and components.
- Store your helmet in a cool, dry, and ventilated place, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Do not leave your helmet in your motorcycle, car, or trunk, as it may get exposed to extreme temperatures and conditions.
- Inspect your helmet for any cracks, dents, scratches, or signs of wear and tear, and replace any damaged or worn-out parts, such as the visor, the chin strap, or the padding.
- Replace your helmet every five years, or sooner if it has been involved in an impact, dropped, or damaged. Even if your helmet looks fine, it may have lost its effectiveness and integrity over time, and may not protect you as well as a new one.
Conclusion
A DOT approved helmet is a helmet that meets the safety standards set by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). Wearing a DOT approved helmet can protect your head from injury or death in case of an accident, and provide you with many other benefits, such as improved visibility, comfort, and enjoyment of riding.
To choose the right helmet for you, you should look for the DOT symbol on the outside back of the helmet, and the manufacturer’s information on the inside of the helmet. You should also consider your head size and shape, your personal preference and style, your budget and quality, and your helmet’s weight, design, and construction. You should also take good care of your helmet and replace it when necessary.
We hope this blog post has helped you understand what a DOT approved helmet is and why you should wear one. If you are looking for a DOT approved helmet, you can check out our selection of helmets here. We have a variety of helmets to suit your needs and preferences, and we offer free shipping and returns, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Don’t wait any longer. Order your DOT approved helmet today and enjoy a safer and more comfortable ride!