Helmets – What’s The Situation?
As it stands right now (April 2009) there is still no law for wearing helmets whilst using a Quad Bike or ATV on british roads.
Even though the law does not state that you have to wear a helmet, there has been many calls for it to be a legal element when riding or using an ATV or Quad Bike on public roads. It is in our opinion that should anyone ride a machine of any description that can reach speeds of over 25mph, a helmet should be compulsory.
Which Helmet To Use – The easiest way to define which helmet to use would be to use the same system that is in force for two wheeled machines – that being anything used as protection for the head should carry the BSi Safety Kite Mark. This way you know that the helmet has been tested to the standards for use on the road.
Full Face – Open Face? – There are obvious differences between helmets and each one carries it’s own issue. Open face helmets are good for head protection but should anything hit you in the face whilst riding you certainly know about it. Even at low speeds of 25-30mph the impact of a “fly” in the face can cause bruising and even flesh wounds.
A full face helmet is the completely opposite – they offer good protection to the head and, if the visor is kept lowered then any insects or dust, stones being thrown up by other vehicles will not danger your face.
There are many helmets on the market today that not only offer great protection but also have the looks and style that even the most modest of trend setters would wear.
The strangest part to all of this is that should you use an ATV or Recreational Vehicle whilst working, then you need to meet safety standards at all times. If for example you worked in the road repair industry and used an ATV as a traffic calming solution, you have to wear a helmet to meet the current regulations for health & safety at work.
Summary – A good way to look at this is always wear head protection when riding an ATV or Quad Bike on the road. Whilst government are still in debate over whether to make it com