Wherever you are in Canada, both drivers and passengers of motorcycles are required to wear a helmet. While this is the rule across the country, the laws are provincially mandated. Some provinces, such as Ontario, have exceptions for riders of Sikh descent, however, most do not.
In addition to a helmet being required, there are specific standards with which a a helmet must comply. In Canada, helmets must comply with and display certification one of the following standards:
- DOT (helmets approved on the basis of complying with US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 218);
- Snell Certification (helmets approved on the basis of complying with Snell Memorial Foundation standards); or
- ECE (helmets approved by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe)
In addition to meeting the above standards, it is recommended that motorcycle helmets have are well fitting and have the following features:
- Full-face protection;
- A wide field of view;
- Visibility and/or reflective material;
- Lightweight to prevent rider fatigue;
- Proper ventilation; and
- Bluetooth connectivity to enable hands free communication.
As a final note about motorcycle helmets – it is important to buy your helmet new from a reputable retailer. This will allow you to know that the helmet has not sustained unseen damage or is not subject to safety recalls.
While it is the hope that you will never need it, having the best available safety equipment can help prevent or limit the effect of an injury in the event of a collision.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle collision, contact our office to discuss your options.
Kevin grew up outside Perth, Ontario, where his modest beginnings shaped his underdog mentality. After earning his law degree from Osgoode Hall, he practised insurance defence before joining Oatley Vigmond, where he now uses his insider experience to help clients secure the compensation they deserve.