Archives for November 2017
What to Look for in a Motorcycle Helmet
When it comes to motorcycle safety, your first consideration will typically be your helmet. But there are literally hundreds of different kinds of helmets to choose from, with a wide range of features. How do you know what you need and what’s just window dressing?
First, let’s be clear about what a helmet is and what it can do. It’s essentially a shell around protective material with a hole in the front so that you can see where you are going. The material in the shell can vary, and the inner lining, usually made of Styrofoam, can have multiple layers with varying degrees of density.
Studies have shown that there’s little correlation between the cost of a helmet and how much protection it will provide. Simply put-an inexpensive helmet can provide just as much, if not more, protection than an expensive one. So, instead of looking at the price of a helmet, consider instead the safety standards the helmet meets, as well as whether or not the helmet fits and doesn’t obstruct your view. You’ll want a helmet that you can wear for hours at a time without any discomfort. You’ll also want one that isn’t going to move on you, so put the helmet on and try to twist it. If you can get it on without any tight spots, an it won’t turn, it’s the right size.
Try on every helmet-don’t assume that sizes will be the same from one manufacturer to the next-they’re usually not.
There are two standards that are prevalent with motorcycle helmets-Snell M2010 and ECE 22.05. Independent testing shows that the ECE 22.05 standard offers a lighter, softer and somewhat safer helmet.
In addition, it’s generally in your best interests to get a full-face helmet, as opposed to the 3/ 4 or half helmets many riders wear. Nearly half of all head impacts in a motorcycle accident involve the facial part of the body..Full-face helmets won’t obstruct your view.
Contact Weber & Nierenberg
At Weber & Nierenberg, we bring over 30 years of experience to people in and around the San Francisco Bay area who have been injured in a motorcycle accident. We built our practice on a strong commitment to personal service and attention. We’ll take the time to learn the unique aspects of your case, so that we can tailor our representation to get the outcome you want. When you hire us to help you pursue full and fair compensation for all your losses, Joe Nierenberg will work directly with you throughout the process.
To set up a free initial consultation with an experienced California motorcycle accident injury attorney, contact us online or call our office at 1-866-288-6010.
Safety Gear for Bikers – Money Well Spent
Whether or not you choose to use a lot of safety gear when you’re on a motorcycle, one thing you can agree on-it ain’t cheap!! Motorcycle safety advocates say that you can expect to spend anywhere from $1,200 to $1,500 or more on initial safety gear-a good helmet, boots and protective clothing-when you get your first bike. And, for most, it’s money very well spent.
Your Body Isn’t Built to Ride Unprotected
It may feel great to have the wind blowing off your arms at 70 mph, but your body simply isn’t designed to take that kind of pressure and resistance. In fact, according to most scientific authority, our bodies are built to travel a maximum of 25 mph without some form of protection. Once you exceed that speed, your bones, skin and organs will be stressed beyond capacity. Something that wouldn’t faze you at 10 mph-a pine cone or a large bug-can cause serious injury at 55 mph.
Here’s another scientific fact to consider-if you lose control of your bike and hit the road, you can lose up to an inch of flesh if your bare skin hits the pavement. Never mind the pain-those types of injuries are always highly susceptible to infection.
Still think the cost is too much? Did you hear about the crash Marc Marquez, World Champion MotoGP racer had, when he lost control of his bike while traveling at 210 mph? He walked away from the accident with minor bruises and scrapes. Okay, so his safety equipment cost nearly $7,000. That seems like a small price to pay, given what could have happened.
Contact Weber & Nierenberg
At Weber & Nierenberg, we bring over 30 years of experience to people in and around the San Francisco Bay area who have been injured in a motorcycle accident. We built our practice on a strong commitment to personal service and attention. We’ll take the time to learn the unique aspects of your case, so that we can tailor our representation to get the outcome you want. When you hire us to help you pursue full and fair compensation for all your losses, Joe Nierenberg will work directly with you throughout the process.
To set up a free initial consultation with an experienced California motorcycle accident injury attorney, contact Weber & Nierenberg by e-mail or call our office at 1-866-288-6010.