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All You Need to Know About Motorcycle Helmet Safety Rating

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Published on July 18, 2023. EST READ TIME: 3 minutes

A bike helmet is one of the most crucial riding gear; you should only get on a two-wheeler with one. This holds true for the riders as well as the pillions. Buying the best helmet also becomes crucial, as, without a proper helmet, you can get severely injured in an accident. This is why you should check the helmet safety rating of the helmet you choose. Take a look at this article to know more about RTO-approved helmets and why they are important.

Motorcycle helmet safety ratings

Every motorcycle helmet is categorised according to the amount of safety it provides. Just like you buy bike insurance online to keep your vehicle safe, you should also get a good helmet to keep yourself protected. Here are the latest helmet ratings:

1. Indian Standard Institute (ISI)

This is the oldest and one of the most popular helmet ratings in India. It is an RTO and Government of India-approved rating, so if you have a helmet with an ISI rating, it would be quite safe for you to purchase it.

2. SNELL Memorial Foundation (SNELL)

Next on the list is the SNELL-rated helmet. This is another one of the very reputed ratings and helmets with a SNELL certification and is considered among the very best.

3. US Department of Transportation (DOT)

This certification is compulsory for all helmets manufactured and used in the United States of America and therefore is extremely valuable.

4. Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Program (SHARP)

This is a certification rating designed by the UK. All helmets that pass this safety check have the word, “SHELL” written on the helmet.

5. Economic Commission of Europe (ECE)

This is one of the most popular helmet ratings in the world and is developed by European nations.

The ratings provided by the above organisations are based on thorough and extensive research and so are considered to be very effective and bankable.

ISI, SNELL, DOT, SHARP, and ECE: Which is the best?

As mentioned above, all the above organisations provide their ratings after carrying out very extensive tests and research. As a result, they are very valuable and you can go for any helmet that has any of the above helmet safety ratings. Just like you won't trust a basic third party bike insurance policy to keep your own bike protected, don't trust a helmet without any of the above ratings to keep your head protected.

When to replace your motorcycle helmet?

There are specific times at which you have to renew your bike insurance online . Similarly, there are some instances when you have to replace the motorcycle helmet as well. They are:

1. After an accident

If you have recently had a bike accident and your trusted helmet saved your life, you should be thankful. However, you will have to change the helmet now as there may be some internal or structural damage to it, even if it is not visible. Experts recommend changing the helmet and getting a new one after an accident, especially if it was a high-impact crash.

2. If you notice wear and tear

If you notice general wear and tear in the helmet, then look to replace it on priority. Whether it is a small crack at the back or a tear on the inside, don't ignore it. Replace the helmet and get a new one. You need a helmet of the best quality to stay protected at all times, so do not take any chances with your safety.

3. After a certain time

As a thumb rule, you need to change a helmet every five years. Even if the helmet looks fine or hasn't been involved in an accident, you still need to replace it as with time, the structure and durability of the helmet change.

How to Choose the safest motorcycle helmet in 2023?

You can choose third party bike insurance or comprehensive insurance, depending on what your needs are, but you have to choose the safest motorcycle helmet to ensure maximum protection. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect one:

1. Certification

Look for a helmet that has a top certification. This states that the helmet has passed all the safety tests and is perfect for you to use. In India, ISI-rated helmets are easily available, so look for those if you can't find anything else.

2. Structure

Make sure you buy a good-quality helmet that is structurally correct. Don't look to save money by getting a cheap, plastic helmet as that won't serve any real purpose or keep you safe.

3. Chin strap

Ensure the helmet has a proper and easy-to-use chin strap. This will allow the helmet to stay in place and offer protection at the time of an accident. In its absence, the helmet may fall off and make it dangerous for you.

4. Correct fit

Try on the helmet to ensure the fit is correct. It should not be too tight or too loose, but fit perfectly.

5. Comfortable

And last but not least, ensure the helmet is well-ventilated and comfortable to use. You won't be able to keep it on for long hours if there is any discomfort.

These are some of the most important parameters to remember when you look to purchase a new motorcycle helmet.

Conclusion

As you can clearly see from the points mentioned above, there are some very important reasons why you should prioritise your motorcycle helmet safety. Keep all the tips and guidelines mentioned here in mind and find the best and most suitable bike helmet for yourself.

Disclaimer : The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales

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