NEBRASKA MOTORCYCLE SAFETY HELMET

Nebraska Motorcycle Safety Helmet

Nebraska Motorcycle Safety Helmet

Introduction

The pros and cons of wearing a motorcycle helmet is the object of many debates. While studies conducted by governments suggest that the helmet is an effective protection, others argue that these studies are far from being conclusive and do not address potential problems such as vision limitations and the impact of the helmet on the back and spine. Much focus is put on wearing the motorcycle helmet. However this is not the only motorcycle safety tip you should know about.

Nebraska Motorcycle Safety Helmet LAW

The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has adopted as its basic motorcycle education course, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation beginning rider course entitled “MSF: Basic RiderCourse” (BRC). This course provides for a minimum of 14 hours of motorcycle instruction with at least 4 hours of classroom instruction and at least 10 hours of actual range time riding motorcycles. (www.dmv.org) The course integrates the classroom instruction and the range driving such that following classroom instruction, the concepts are applied to and practiced on the range. The basic course includes the following topics:

* Location of the controls and pre-ride procedures.

* Balance and control of the motorcycle.

* Riding skills and evasive maneuvers.

* Safety equipment and procedures.

* Effects of alcohol and drugs while operating a motorcycle.

Successful completion of any of the courses listed below will allow the graduate to have the DMV examiner waive both the written and drive test when application is made to obtain a license to operate a motorcycle. Course graduates may also be eligible for lower insurance rates. Enrollment is limited and courses often fill quickly, so register early.

In order to operate a motorcycle on the highways of the State of Nebraska, all operators must have a Class M (motorcycle) license or Class M endorsement on a regular operator's license. Just having a regular Class O (operators) license does not allow an individual to operate a motorcycle; law requires a Class M license or Class M endorsement. No person shall operate a moped unless the person has a valid Class O operator's license, a valid school, or learner's permit. Protective helmets that meet the United States Department of Transportation's Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard #218 are required for all operators and passengers of a motorcycle or moped. The protective helmet must be secured properly on the head of the operator or passenger with a chinstrap while the motorcycle or moped is in motion. The helmet shall consist of lining, padding, and chin strap and shall meet or exceed the U.S. D.O.T. 218 Standard. (www.ghsa.org)

The protective apparel, as a whole, worn by a Nebraska motorcyclist provides the best defense against injury in a crash. This apparel includes a Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (DOT) (FMVSS) 218 compliant motorcycle helmet, heavy-duty jacket and pants, boots, (Shankar, 2006, 810) gloves, and eye protection. In addition, the proper education and training of the motorcycle rider is a key element of effective motorcycle ...