Risk Management Magazine

While in Afghanistan, every Thursday night I would get together with three friends and watch “Sons of Anarchy,” a television show about the exploits of an outlaw motorcycle gang. After about six months of watching, we decided we all needed to buy motorcycles when we returned home.

A helmet is the most critical piece of personal protective equipment a rider will wear. According to Army policy, riders are required to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle or ATV. It only makes sense if you want to prevent traumatic and fatal head injuries.

Motorcycles were my thing growing up. I raced in motocross competitions just about every weekend and worked for the shop that sponsored me. I fell often enough to learn the hard way that my helmet, gloves, elbow and shoulder pads, boots, long-sleeved jersey and riding pants really did work.