Comments on feature article on Helmet Scam
Dear AR1.com, While I agree with the ideas voiced in the Helmet Scam column, unfortunately in our litigious society, a sanctioning body that did not require participants to use helmets conforming to the latest standards is just asking for a law suit after someone sustains an unfortunate head injury. It won't matter to the attorneys looking for someone to blame that "the recommendation for five year helmet replacement is a judgment call." So, I believe the sanctioning bodies are trapped unless/until Snell adopts a longer window or some other testing organization steps up with more comprehensive testing and standards that supersede the Snell standards. But I don't really know why someone would want to get in front of that freight train. I believe we're stuck with the status quo. NEIL KOMAI
Dear AR1.com, A point well taken on the dating of manufacturing. However, as one who is recovering from a concussion received in April I would hope the change to 2010 standards were of some benefit. My two month old Stilo fractured upon impact with the seat back in a back into the wall episode. My previous helmet, a Stand 21, was 8 years old- assuming that it was properly handled and no flaws- did the new standards help? In my other life in construction we find that codes are primarily driven by insurance and liability concerns. The user’s safety is nevertheless benefitted by this. It’s the old Ralph Nader problem- may not have liked ‘em but yet the safety movement really did work. John Peterson
Dear AR1.com, If you think the examples stated are hypocritical you should look at the ALMS/FIA requirements. They passed rules that make every driver buy a $2,500 to $4,000 helmet to replace anything we have made in America. Snell certifications are not allowed or recognized, like they were useless! The FIA rule that the ALMS adopted called for this sham and of course only Euro helmets qualify. A complete waste of money and time. In addition you cannot even drill a drink tube hole in your helmet, no modifications of any type are allowed! Robbery! Driver, Name Withheld