Abstract
Extensive research and operational data have shown that a motorcycle helmet is very effective in reducing injuries resulting from a motorcycle accident. However, less than 50 percent of all motorcycle riders wear a helmet. Therefore, to encourage helmet wear and, thus, decrease critical injuries, the helmet must be designed with the wearer in mind.
A sample survey of 94 motorcycle riders was taken to rank various features of design. The data were compiled and statistically analyzed to determine the features that helmet wearers and non-wearers deem to be most critical.
With these features in mind, several helmets from a local motorcycle shop were carefully examined. Ergonomic parameters (padding thickness, field of view, etc.) of each helmet were recorded.
Utilizing the survey information and the measurements of current helmet design, an optimum helmet was developed.
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