Is it ok to buy a second hand helmet or use one given by friends or family?
Even if you know the person offering you a second-hand helmet, you cannot truly know the helmet. Is it the right size and shape for you? Has it been dropped? Where has it been stored? How old is it? Has the liner been washed? How many times has it been used? How worn is the chin strap? The liners of helmets are designed to gently mould to the head shape of the wearer. So a second-hand helmet will never truly fit you. A helmet that doesn’t fit is not going to provide good protection in a crash. If you were injured in a crash wearing a second-hand helmet, you may receive less financial compensation from an insurance claim. It’s your head, it’s your life at risk, buy a new helmet every time.
