This is true. In all helmet law states, DOT approval is required for sale.
The only non-DOT helmets are cheapies, usually bought by people trying to
skirt the law who have heads that aren't worth protecting anyway.
DOT requirements are very minimal. Snell standards are pretty tough.
There are significant difference between the German TUF standards and Snell
and I'd probably feel okay with a TUF approval even if it didn't meet Snell.
This is most commonly the case in helmets such as BMW's System helmets (not
sold in the U.S. thanks to our legal system) with an opening front. Snell
approves none of those helmets - I had a long discussion once with the tech
guy at Shoei as to why - but many are good helmets.
In essence, DOT approval doesn't offer a lot. Snell is mostly the only
game in town when it comes to actual testing. When you find helmets that meet
the European standards, they are probably plenty good. And the difference
between a helmet and no helmet is the only one that has been statistically
proven to be most effective. (Just because proof isn't documented doesn't
mean there are no differences. It just gives up the opportunity to continue
this discussion forever. Fun, huh?)
-Jay
In a message dated 11/2/00 11:08:22 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
<< Is there such a thing as a Snell approved helmet that isn't DOT approved?
I
don't think so; I don't think the helmet can be sold as a motorcycle helmet
if it isn't DOT approved. >>
Orange County, California
Park Ranger R-115
1993-1998
