|
Replace Dropped Helmet
My wife dropped her Bell helmet 3 feet onto concrete, plain and simple.
Replace it? |
Originally Posted by TromboneAl
(Post 9063248)
My wife dropped her Bell helmet 3 feet onto concrete, plain and simple.
Replace it? |
Is it cracked or broken at all? I can tell you what the party line answer is and what I'd do. They're not the same thing. ;)
|
I used to drop my helmet once in a while. Over 5 years it mounted up.
One day I noticed a hairline crack in the polystyrene and replaced it immediately. I dont think one drop will terminate the useful life but they add up. The forces involved in in crashing are much higher, so replace after every crash where you impact the helmet with head inside. |
Check the helmet out and see if any cracks in the polystyrene. Don't just look at it- Get it in your hands and twist it gently- or pull outwards. I replace helmets regularly- I fall off a lot- and I can see or feel when my helmets are damaged. But if I have a fall that I think could have damaged the helmet- I don't take a chance and replace it.
|
http://www.bellbikehelmets.com/helmet101.asp#6
WHEN SHOULD I REPLACE MY HELMET? How often should a helmet be replaced under normal wear and tear? Bell has a general recommendation of replacing a helmet every three (3) years. If you have any questions as to the condition of your helmet please call us for information or to set up a free inspection. What if a helmet becomes damaged? If the helmet is visibly damaged (cracked outer shell, crushed or cracked foam liner or any other damage) or involved in a serious crash, don’t use it. Damage to a helmet is not always visible! Some or all of the helmet’s protective capacity is used up when impacted. HOW DO I GET IN TOUCH WITH BELL? We welcome your comments and questions regarding our products and services. We can be reached by mail, phone, fax, or e-mail. Mail: Customer Service Bell Sports, Inc. 1924 County Rd. 3000 N Rantoul, IL 61866 Phone: (800) 456-2355 (217) 893-9300 8:00am to 5:00pm Central Time Fax: (800) 888-9009 Answer_Desk@bellsports.com |
Here's how I see it...
If a helmet is already nearly useless, then a helmet that has been dropped on the floor must be completely useless. So I'd toss it out, and make sure you destroy it before dumping it in the trash to ensure no one finds it and tries to use unsafe damaged goods. Wheter you buy a new one or not after doing that is up to you. |
I believe that the internal foam wouldn't be damaged without a head in it. The hard shell can be inspected. Call the manufacturer and ask them and report back please. How old is it? If it is already 2 or 3 years then they will say replace it.
|
| All times are GMT -6. The time now is 08:40 AM. |
Copyright © 2026 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. All rights reserved. Use of this site indicates your consent to the Terms of Use.