The moped crash helmet - required by Dutch law since 1975 - protects riders from head injury in case of an accident. The crash helmet is more effective if it is worn properly, fits the head well, and is not too badly damaged. When the SWOV Institute for Road Safety Research first carried out a survey into crash helmets in 1984, the percentage of riders wearing crash helmets was 100%. What was lacking in many cases, however, was the proper use of the chin strap as well as the wearing of crash helmets in good condition. Based on general observations through the years, it has been concluded that the percentage of the wearing crash helmets in 1996 could no longer be assumed to be 100%. These were the reasons for carrying out a new assessment after twelve years. The second survey into moped crash helmets was held during the months of August through December 1996. Observations and interviews were made at 24 locations throughout the Netherlands. Besides the actual observations involving the correct wearing of the crash helmet and the crash helmet's condition, opinions of moped riders were gauged as well. The questions which formed the basis for the 1984 survey were asked again, with the addition of several other questions. At the same time, a more detailed study was made of certain current issues such as the possession of the moped certificate (required by Dutch law since 1 June 1996), the maximum speed of the moped (due to the problem associated with the illegal boosting of the engine's capacity for increased speed) and the general condition of the moped (whether or not the moped has undergone its required periodic inspection). The results of the survey suggest that the sitation has improved since 1984 but that the improper use is still frequent. It appears that the passengers most frequently do not wear a helmet. The survey showed that 38% of the moped riders who had not fastened their chin strap thought there was little chance that the crash helmet would come off in case of an accident; 30% thought they could be fined for the improper wearing of their crash helmet. In 1996, more moped riders see the point of wearing crash helmets than in 1984. Figures show, however, that focusing more attention to the proper wearing of the crash helmet is still necessary. Possible means for this are: adding to the training requirements needed to receive a moped certificate, providing general information combined with intensified police enforcement and providing product information and advice to future buyers of a crash helmet. Police enforcement also appears to be necessary to restrain excess speed (according to their own statements, one-third of moped riders go faster than 50 km/h) and to take into consideration the generally poor condition of mopeds.
Abstract