While the law in Texas does not oblige over 18s to wear bicycle helmets, many people still do because they realize the potential benefits. Research suggests that wearing a helmet reduces a person’s chances of suffering severe head injuries by a significant proportion.
If you’re just taking up cycling and are seeking a new helmet, what factors should you keep in mind?
The purpose of your cycling
Some people cycle to work. Others go out on weekend treks on more rough terrain. The purpose of your cycling journeys should be factored in when choosing your next helmet. There are more breathable helmets out there for cyclists who are doing long trips. A more heavy-duty helmet might be suited to those doing short downhill bursts on rough terrain.
The fit of the helmet
Helmets should not be loose or tight. The headgear mustn’t be able to wobble around or come off while you’re traveling. At the same time, you don’t want the straps to dig into your neck and cause discomfort either. Take your time, play around with the adjustments and pick out a helmet that feels comfortable and secure.
What about colors?
Visibility is crucial to cycling safety, especially if you’re heading out onto the open roads. Your helmet can play a secondary role in increasing your visibility. Brighter-colored helmets will be more noticeable. Even if your chosen helmet is dark in color, you can look out for bright and reflective stickers that give it an edge and increase visibility.
Sadly, even with the appropriate headgear, you may still be injured in a cycling accident. If your accident has been caused by the negligent actions of another road user, make sure you look into your legal options.
