One of the most important lessons children are taught when learning how to ride a bicycle is the importance of always wearing a helmet. While it is impossible to determine exactly how effective helmets are at preventing serious injuries, bicycle helmets are estimated to save thousands of lives per year. In addition, helmets reduce the chance of a rider sustaining a serious head injury in the event of a Maryland bicycle accident.
While the importance of bicycle helmets cannot be overstated, a recent trend concerning the prevalence of counterfeit bicycle helmets is very alarming. According to a recent news report by National Public Radio, counterfeit helmets are often manufactured outside the United States and sold through online retailers. Counterfeit helmets may look very similar to their name-brand counterparts, however, the protection provided by counterfeit helmets pales in comparison.
The U.S. government, as well as helmet manufactures, have taken up the fight to eliminate counterfeit helmets from the marketplace. Also, some online retailers have developed technology to weed out counterfeits.
How Can a Consumer Tell if a Helmet is Counterfeit?
Counterfeit helmets are designed to look very similar to the helmets that are manufactured by reputable sports equipment manufacturers. However, the quality of the materials and workmanship in a counterfeit helmet is inferior. Visually, the foam padding in counterfeit helmets is often thinner, yet because they use a cheaper material, these helmets weigh more than their real counterparts. Counterfeit helmets also often lack an inner roll cage and other safety features.
Price is another way to tell if a helmet is authentic. Typically, a good helmet manufactured by a respected manufacturer will cost upwards of $200; however, counterfeits based on the same design may be available online for as little as $50. Finally, authentic helmets will have stickers on the inside of the helmet indicating that it complies with U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission standards, while counterfeit helmets will not.
Product Liability Cases Following a Maryland Bicycle Accident
Manufacturers are responsible for the products they sell. If a product’s design is unsafe or the product contains a manufacturing defect the manufacturer may be liable for any injuries that occur as a result. Of course, these product liability claims are independent from any other personal injury claim that may be brought against the party responsible for causing the accident. Anyone injured in a Maryland bicycle accident should consult with a dedicated injury attorney to discuss their situation and what options are available.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Bicycle Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a Maryland bicycle accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. The dedicated Maryland personal injury lawyers at the law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen, LLC have extensive experience assisting injury victims and their families pursue claims for compensation against the parties responsible for their injuries. We represent Maryland bicycle accident victims across the state, as well as in Virginia and Washington, D.C. To learn more, call 410-654-3600 to schedule your free consultation today.
More Blog Posts:
Pursuing a Claim of Negligence Following a Maryland Motorcycle Accident, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published November 13, 2018.
Recovering after a Maryland Hit-and-Run Motorcycle Accident, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published November 6, 2018.