outside back of the helmet. Then, look for a label inside the helmet
with the manufacturer’s name, month, and year of manufacture,
construction materials, model, size, and other important information.
• Be equipped with a chinstrap and have at least four square inches of
red, amber, or white reflectorized tape on each side.
• Lack obvious defects, such as cracks, loose padding or frayed straps.
Note: Not all helmet damage is obvious. To ensure safety, do not buy a used
helmet.
When riding, keep the helmet securely fastened at all times. A loosened helmet is
likely to fall off during a crash.
EYE AND FACE PROTECTION
Motorcycle operators are required to wear approved goggles or a face shield when
operating a motorcycle, unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen.
(N.J.S.A. 39:3-76.8, 76.9) A full-face helmet offers riders the most protection.
A plastic face shield does protect a rider’s face from wind, dust, dirt, rain, insects,
and debris. Regardless, attention should be on the road – not on these potential
problems. Choose equipment that is not distracting, so that your complete attention
is on the road. Goggles can also protect a rider’s eyes from wind, dust, dirt, rain,
insects, and debris, but do not protect the rest of a rider’s face – but a face shield
does. Most windshields will not protect eyes from wind; neither will eyeglasses or
sunglasses. Glasses will not keep eyes from watering and might blow off while
riding. Face shields and goggles must meet U.S. Department of Transportation
and New Jersey standards, and should have the ANSI label. Because they are
plastic, face shields and goggles will develop scratches and become brittle with
age. For maximum protection and comfort, replace equipment regularly.
Effective eye or face protection must:
• Be scratch-free.
• Be made of shatterproof material.
• Give a clear view to either side.
• Fasten securely.
• Allow air to pass through, so it will not fog.
• Allow enough room for eye glasses or sunglasses, if needed.
• Tinted eye protection should not be worn at night or any other time
when little light is available.
CLOTHING
Clothing helps protect riders in crashes and in other situations. Jackets and pants
should cover arms and legs completely, while still providing comfort. Both should
fit snugly enough that there is no flapping in the wind and loosely enough to let the
rider move freely.
Bright, reflective helmets and clothing help others see a motorcyclist.
Leather offers the most protection, but sturdy, synthetic material also provides
protection. Wear a jacket even in warm weather. Many motorcycle jackets are
designed to protect without over-heating, even on warm days.
Boots and shoes should be high enough to cover ankles and sturdy enough to
provide support. Soles should be made of a hard, durable material. Heels should
be short enough not to catch on rough surfaces. Boot straps and shoelaces should
be tucked in.
Full-finger leather or other motorcycle gloves are also important as they provide a
good grip on controls, while helping to protect hands during a crash.
In cold or wet weather, clothes should keep riders warm and dry, as well as
protect riders from injury. Safely controlling a motorcycle with numb arms is nearly
impossible. Riding for long periods in the cold weather can cause severe chill,
fatigue, and hypothermia. A winter jacket should be wind resistant and fit snugly at
THREE-QUARTERONE-HALFFULL FACE
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MOTORCYCLE MANUAL
THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER MANUAL WWW.NJMVC.GOV