While many vehicle trends come and go, motorcycles remain a mainstay on roads and highways nationwide. Motorcycle safety is, therefore, a constant concern on the minds of riders and other motorists as well.
With head trauma being perhaps the scariest possible type of injury that a motorcycle rider can incur, the development of helmets with built-in multi-directional impact protection systems is a topic worth discussing. The question remains as to whether or not these MIPS helmets truly improve motorcycle safety.
How do MIPS helmets improve motorcycle safety?
MIPS helmets are among multiple new motorcycle technologies that safety advocates strongly recommend for riders to adopt. The principle behind a MIPS helmet is that it not only bears the brunt of an impact but it also twists independently from the force of the impact so that the wearer’s head does not excessively twist as well. This technology has the potential to significantly reduce the risk of concussion and other injuries.
What is the law surrounding MIPS helmets?
In Kentucky, only riders and passengers under the age of 21, as well as individuals operating a motorcycle on a permit or a license that they received less than a year prior, must wear a helmet while on a motorcycle. Motorcyclists over 21 with eligible license status have no requirement to wear a helmet during operation. While MIPS helmets observably provide superior protection over standard helmets, there is no law in Kentucky stating that those required to wear helmets while on a motorcycle must wear MIPS helmets.
While many motorcycle riders are under no legal obligation to wear a MIPS helmet, or any helmet at all, doing so can vastly improve safety and prevent avoidable injuries.
