Use your head on two-wheeled vehicles, road

By Kristinn Heinrichs, US Army Health Center VicenzaMay 11, 2017

Use your head
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

VICENZA, Italy -- Here in Italy, we are often surrounded, and sometimes surprised, on the roads by two-wheeled vehicles, from scooters to bicycles. Some people are drawn to the exhilarating feeling of wind in their hair, some simply enjoy the exercise.

If you decide to take advantage of the flat roads and great experiences on two wheels, always consider the best strategies to do it safely.

Wear a snug-fitting helmet specific to the activity. It's the rule on post and makes sense everywhere else. Also, ride on designated bike paths whenever you can. Ride defensively -- expect the unexpected from every side.

Italian law requires a bike bell and front and rear lights to help you be seen and communicate with other drivers. Those fluorescent jackets and exercise wear are also great to help others see you. Remember to stay sharp, and never bike while texting or using music earbuds; when one is distracted by texting, the reaction time is equal to that of a 95-year-old. Be smart and put the phone away.

We all know to never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs, but also remember medications such as allergy medications or prescription pain killers may cause. Don't forget to check the weather and road conditions, as roads are slickest just after the rain starts. Finally, be alert for areas of limited visibility and know your limits.

Right helmet, right sport, right fit

You may already know that helmets are the first step to riding safety and preventing head injuries, but do you know how to get the right helmet for you and your sport?

Most bicycle, in-line skating, skateboarding and roller-skating helmets are rated as single-use, designed to be used only for the activity for which it is intended, and single impact, designed to protect you against a single crash. Once the head has connected with an immovable object, the helmet must be replaced because of the potential for damage to the impact-absorbing material of the helmet.

Lab research has shown that you want the outside of the helmet to slide when a person hits the pavement to prevent head rotation, not stick to the pavement and jerk your neck. Rounder, slicker helmets slide better. You can also be confident in buying Italian-made helmets as the Italian standards meet, and often exceed, American standards.

Getting the right fit

Step 1: Measure head circumference with a tape measure. Place it slightly above the ear and bring it across the mid-forehead, completely circling the head one inch above the eyebrows. Take the average of three or four measurements. There are charts available online that can help determine helmet size from this measurement.

Step 2: Try it on. The helmet should be worn level on the head and not slide or move freely when you roll your head from side to side. Helmets usually come with differing thickness pad sets to use for a better fit.

Step 3: For a proper fit, be sure the front of the helmet lies just above the eyebrows and that the back of the helmet doesn't touch the nape of the neck. The chin strap should fit snugly but so tight as to cause discomfort or choking. Securely fasten the strap and try to roll the helmet off the head. If the skin on your forehead moves slightly, it is a good fit.

Step 4: Wear it! Every time!

The U.S. Army Health Center-Vicenza is dedicated to keeping you and your loved ones healthy. Concussions and head injuries from motorcycles and bicycles are more frequent than you think. If you have had a head injury and are experiencing symptoms like persistent headaches, blurred vision and/or confusion, make an appointment with your Primary Care Provider right away through www.TRICAREonline.com or by contacting the Appointment and Information Line at DSN 636-9000, comm. 0444-61-9000.

Related Links:

USAG Italy webpage

USAG Italy Facebook page