In Alberta, wearing a helmet is the law when you're on a motorcycle. Head injury is a leading cause of death in motorcycle crashes. It's a fact that a rider without a helmet is 40 percent more likely to incur a fatal injury in a crash than a helmeted rider.

How a Helmet Works

Your helmet can be your best friend in a crash. It will absorb the impact before it reaches your head. A helmet works by absorbing and spreading some of the impact energy through its outer shell, which is usually made of fiberglass or plastic. Most of the impact though, is absorbed by the liner that reduces the force of the impact from being transmitted directly to the head. This liner, usually made of polystyrene foam, lies between the outer shell of the helmet and the comfort liner - the foam layer that actually touches the head.

Choosing A Helmet

It is important to wear a helmet that fits you properly. Consider these factors when purchasing a motorcycle helmet:

1. Always try on a helmet before you buy it.
2. A helmet should feel snug and you should not be able to move it around or back and forth on your head.
3. A helmet should not prevent you from turning your head to observe traffic.
4. All helmets are required to provide the wearer with a 210 degree field of vision.

Even short falls from a motorcycle seat or the end of a handlebar can shorten a helmet's life span.

Any damage to a helmet reduces its effectiveness. Follow the helmet care instructions as indicated in the owner's manual.

A full-face helmet offers the most protection in a crash. These helmets completely cover the head and have a bar that extends over the chin. Most full-face helmets are equipped with plastic face shields to protect against wind, dust, rain, insects and road debris. If you buy a helmet without a face shield, be sure to wear goggles to protect your eyes.

Always fasten the helmet when wearing it. An unfastened helmet will fly off in a crash. Check the chin strap regularly to make sure it is still secure.