When should you replace your bicycle helmet?
A bicycle helmet’s protective lifespan is limited, and should be replaced when damaged or becomes outdated. Common reasons to replace your bicycle helmet include:
A crash wearing your helmet with impact to the helmet or your head. Even if the helmet looks undamaged you should replace it after a crash. There may be damage to the shell, foam, straps, and other parts that is not visible.
There is visible damage to the helmet or other parts such as cracks or dents, frayed or cut straps, a broken clip, or broken retention or safety system.
Even if you haven’t had a crash or damaged your helmet, replace your helmet with regular use or age. Sweat, UV exposure, and normal wear and tear, will cause parts of the bicycle helmet to break, compress, and degrade over time and become less effective. The frequency or length of time may vary depending on amount of use but a good rule of thumb is to replace your helmet every three to five years. If you are harder on your helmet it could need to be replaced sooner.
Changes in fit of helmet. If the helmet fit changes and becomes too loose or too tight. Maybe your hairstyle has changed making the helmet too loose or too tight.
Technology changes. Helmet technology changes overtime and some new technology and safety features may make replacing your helmet worthwhile.
Follow the helmet manufacture’s guide on storage and cleaning of the bicycle helmet. Avoid crushing or compressing the helmet when packed for travel or storage. Avoid storing your helmet in hot cars where temperatures can get high. Regular cleaning not only keeps you looking and smelling good but is a good opportunity to check your helmet for signs of damage.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our legal services and how our focus in brain injury and bicycle injury cases matters, please get in touch with us via our contact page at Contact Us.
If you found this post helpful, you might also like to explore the other topics listed below and the many other topics in our comprehensive Safety & Prevention Guide, Brain Injury Guide, and Bike Injury Guide.
