Use your head to protect it - Why you should never ride a motorcycle without a helmet

The last time you hopped on a motorcycle, did you put your helmet on? Hopefully the answer is yes. A 2007 National Highway Transportation Safety Administration report on motorcycle fatalities indicated there was a direct correlation between head injuries and helmet use. Around 51 percent of motorcyclists not wearing a helmet suffered a head injury, compared to just 35 percent of helmeted motorcyclists.

While in some states wearing a helmet is a matter of choice, some pretty compelling statistics show that wearing one can go a long way to helping you survive a crash and ride another day. Thus, determining how to choose the helmet that's right for you could be one of the most important motorcycle safety tips you will ever receive. Here are some tips to helping you find the best helmet for your safety:

1. Regardless of price, color or style, you should always ensure there is a D.O.T. (U.S. Department of Transportation) sticker on the back. This indicates the helmet meets D.O.T. safety standards.

2. There are three types of helmets: open-face helmets, half helmets and full-face helmets. Each of these offers a different level of coverage for your face. Full-face helmets typically provide the most protection.

3. Make sure the helmet will stay secure on your head. To check this, first fasten the strap snugly around your chin. Then, grab the back of the helmet and try to lift it up and roll it forward off your head. A good helmet also will not come off when you shake your head. A full-face or open-face helmet should grip your cheeks and jaw as well as the top and sides of your head.

4. While your helmet should always fit snugly around your head, a good helmet should always be comfortable. Look for padding, a neck roll and a seal around the ear.

And since you never know when an accident is going to happen, it's a good idea to check your insurance coverage from time to time to make sure it is up to date. You can get a free motorcycle insurance quote from just about any insurance company out there.

For the most part, your motorcycle insurance coverage options should typically be similar to what you have for your cars. It's a good idea to price out collision and comprehensive coverage, personal injury protection and uninsured/underinsured coverage. Property damage liability and bodily injury liability are good to consider as well.

Courtesy of ARAcontent