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A bicycle helmet is a critical piece of safety equipment for any cyclist, whether you're a casual rider or a competitive cyclist. The purpose of the helmet is to protect the head and brain in the event of a crash or accident. A good helmet is designed to absorb the impact and distribute the force of a crash to minimize injury.
While helmets are designed to protect your head in the event of a crash, they do have a lifespan. In this post, we'll discuss the factors that determine when it's time to replace your helmet, and some tips on how to make your helmet last as long as possible.
One of the most obvious signs that it's time to replace your helmet is if it shows signs of wear and tear. This can include cracks in the helmet's shell, fraying of the straps, or any other damage that may compromise the helmet's ability to protect your head. If you notice any of these issues, it's important to replace your helmet as soon as possible.
If a hard hit to the helmet is taken, it should be replaced, it may seem undamaged but the internal structure could have been compromised, reducing the safety standards.
Another factor to consider is the age of the helmet. The materials used in the construction of helmets will degrade over time, even if the helmet is not being used.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends replacing a helmet every five years, even if it shows no signs of damage. This is because the helmet's protective materials may have become weaker or less effective over time. Also, newer helmet models may have improved safety features and designs, like new ventilation systems and advanced materials that provide better protection.
Some helmet manufacturers now print an expiration date on the inside of the helmet. This date indicates the point at which the helmet's materials and protective features will begin to degrade. For example, the glue and foam used to construct the helmet may start to break down over time, which can reduce the helmet's effectiveness in protecting your head.
If you have been in an accident or a crash, you should replace your helmet, even if it shows no visible signs of damage. The impact from a crash can weaken the materials of a helmet, reducing its effectiveness in protecting your head in the future.
If you're ever in doubt about whether or not your helmet is still safe to use, it's always best to err on the side of caution and replace it.
There are a few simple steps you can take to make your helmet last longer:
A bicycle helmet is a vital piece of safety equipment for any cyclist, but it does have a lifespan. It's important to pay attention to the signs of wear and tear, the age of the helmet, impact damage, as well as an expiration date. Regular cleaning and proper storage can prolong the life of your helmet, but if in doubt, always err on the side of caution and replace it.
Remember that a helmet can save your life, and therefore it is important to always have a helmet that is in good working condition. Also, it is always good to be aware of the safety standards and certifications of the helmet you have and look for new safety features and designs on the market.
In addition to protecting your head with a properly functioning helmet, it is also important to protect yourself and your bike with insurance. By insuring your bike with Oyster, you have a variety of coverage options, including theft protection, accident damage, medical payments, and liability coverage. Bike insurance gives you peace of mind knowing that you and your bike are always protected on the road.
Join Oyster today to learn how you can be properly protected from the unexpected things in life.
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