Wearing protective gear gives three advantages: comfort and protection from the elements, injury protection and helping you to be seen in the case of colourful or reflective gear.
In one crash study, 73% of accidents involved riders that used no eye protection. It is likely that wind on unprotected eyes impairs vision.
The use of heavy boots, a jacket and gloves is effective in reducing abrasions and lacerations which are frequent injuries.
As regards head injury, a helmet is the single critical factor in prevention. It has been reported that helmets don’t reduce traffic sounds, limit pre-crash visual field or cause fatigue or loss of attention. In an important finding, 9% of helmets came off during the crash in Europe because they weren’t fastened or fit properly or because they were damaged in the fall.
Helmets saved the lives of 1,784 motorcyclists in 2007 in the US. If all bikers had worn helmets, 800 more lives could have been saved. Helmets are estimated to be 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries – for every 100 bikers killed in crashes and not wearing helmets, 37 could have been saved.
Using a motorbike without a helmet will cause you 2 penalty points. In addition, it is your responsibility to ensure that a passenger is wearing a helmet. Failing to do so will cost you another 2 points. You must have a crash helmet that has one of the approved standard marks when using your bike in a public place
Eye protection should be scratch free, shatter proof and well ventilated to prevent fog buildup. Only clear shields should be used at night since tinted shields reduce contrast and make it more difficult to see. Trousers should not be baggy or flared at the bottom to prevent entanglement with the chain, kick starter or footpegs.
For any kind of motorbike query don’t hesitate to call us on 045 431542 for an opinion of your case. You can also email us at info@motorbikelaw.ie or use our “Evaluation of your Case” link at the top of this page and we’ll get back to you.*
* In contentious business a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.