Is It Safer to Wear a Helmet While Driving a Car?
4 Answers
It is prohibited to drive a motor vehicle with incomplete safety facilities or mechanical components that do not meet technical standards, which may pose safety hazards. Below are some driving precautions: 1. Do not occupy the emergency lane casually: During traffic jams on highways, the emergency lane becomes crucial as it serves as a rescue lane and the only passage for emergency vehicles. Therefore, avoid occupying the emergency lane for temporary convenience. If you must stop due to special circumstances, promptly turn on the hazard lights and place a triangular warning sign 50 meters behind the vehicle. 2. Make slight adjustments to the steering wheel: When driving on highways, avoid making large turns with the steering wheel. Always keep a firm grip on the wheel, and only make minor adjustments when avoiding obstacles. 3. Do not occupy the overtaking lane for extended periods: The overtaking lane is typically the left lane. New cars on highways often do not reach high speeds quickly, so it is best to drive in the normal lane and avoid staying in the overtaking lane for too long.
From the perspective of automotive safety, after driving for so many years, I know that wearing a helmet in the car might sound safer, but it's actually unnecessary. The car itself is designed with seat belts and airbags specifically to protect the head. Airbags deploy instantly during a collision to cushion the impact and prevent head injuries. Wearing a helmet, on the other hand, can restrict your field of vision, increasing blind spots when checking mirrors or the surrounding environment, which might raise the risk of accidents. Especially during long drives, helmets can cause discomfort, sweating, and distraction, making driving even more dangerous. To my knowledge, traffic regulations don’t require helmets because, in high-speed crashes, helmets could be flung off or become hard objects causing secondary injuries. I recommend regularly checking your vehicle’s safety systems to ensure seat belts and airbags are functioning properly. Developing the habit of wearing a seat belt is far more reliable than wearing a helmet.
As a new driver learning to drive, I also wondered if wearing a helmet would be safer, but later my instructor told me that the standard safety equipment in cars is sufficient. I tried driving with a helmet once—it was heavy and stuffy, and I almost had a minor scrape because I couldn't see the side mirrors fully when turning. The seatbelt does a great job securing the body, and the airbags deploy in emergencies to protect the head and face. Helmets take up space inside the car, and in a crash, they put more strain on the neck, increasing the risk of injury. The key is to stay focused while driving, avoid speeding or using your phone, so safety measures can truly work effectively.
When traveling with children frequently, I believe safety is the top priority. However, wearing helmets in the car is unnecessary and could even be harmful. Children are well-protected by seat belts and dedicated car seats, while adults have airbags for additional safety. Helmets make the space cramped, and in case of sudden braking, the head might hit the interior, with sharp edges potentially causing cuts. Teaching children to buckle up as soon as they get in the car is the right habit to cultivate. Maintaining the vehicle in good condition and ensuring airbags are tested and functional can significantly reduce injury risks in accidents.
