Crash helmets – how important are they?

By Louise Moore

Published February 04, 2025In: Personal Injury

When you think of motorcycle safety, what comes to mind? For many, it’s the helmet—a simple yet vital piece of equipment that can mean the difference between life and death. Despite its importance, not everyone wears a helmet when riding, and unfortunately, this choice often leads to tragic consequences.

Let’s explore why helmets matter, the laws surrounding them, and what you should know to stay safe on the road.

The law: what you need to know

Wearing a crash helmet when riding a motorcycle has been a legal requirement in the UK since 1973. The Road Traffic Act grants the Secretary of State the authority to enforce regulations on protective headgear, with specifics laid out in the Highway Code.

According to the Highway Code:

It is mandatory to wear a safety helmet when riding a motorcycle, scooter or moped as a rider or pillion passenger and you should wear a safety helmet on a quad bike.
An exception exists for followers of the Sikh religion who wear turbans instead of helmets.

But it’s not just about wearing any helmet—it must meet strict safety standards. Helmets on UK roads must comply with:

British Standard BS 6658:1985 and display the BSI Kitemark
UNECE Regulation 22.05, or equivalent standards from the European Economic Area.

For riders keen to ensure their helmet offers optimal protection, the Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme (SHARP) provides ratings and guidance to help make informed decisions.

Why helmets are essential

The statistics speak volumes. Between 2002 and 2017, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated that helmets saved over 25,000 lives. Moreover, helmets are deemed 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries for riders.

However, a startling 41% of motorcyclists in the UK are wearing helmets that need replacing. Even minor damage to a helmet can compromise its protective abilities, underscoring the importance of regular inspections and timely replacements.

A matter of life and death

Helmets protect your most vulnerable asset: your head. One damaged helmet showcased by Switalskis Personal Injury team revealed the extent of the protection provided during an accident. While the wearer escaped significant injury, the helmet bore the brunt of the impact, demonstrating just how crucial it is to wear effective, high-quality headgear.

Motorcycle helmets are more than just an accessory—they’re a lifesaver. By wearing a helmet that meets safety standards and replacing it when necessary, you’re not only following the law but also safeguarding your life.

As Louise Moore from Switalskis’ Personal Injury department puts it: “I wouldn’t dream of traveling as a pillion passenger without a helmet or all the other safety gear, no matter what the weather or how short the distance. It’s just not worth the risk.”

Louise has witnessed first-hand the devastating effects of not wearing adequate safety gear.

Taking action after an accident

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident and suffered an injury through no fault of your own, Switalskis is here to help. With a dedicated personal injury team, we ensure every step of your claim is transparent, offering expert advice and support tailored to your case.