What is the impact of wearing a non-DOT-approved helmet?

Wearing a non-DOT-approved helmet can significantly increase the risk of injury in the event of an accident because these helmets may not meet the safety standards established by the Department of Transportation. DOT-approved helmets undergo rigorous testing to ensure they provide adequate protection, including impact resistance and retention system effectiveness. A helmet that does not meet these standards may fail to absorb the energy of an impact, which can lead to severe head injuries or even fatalities that could have been mitigated with a properly certified helmet. Ensuring that a helmet is DOT-approved is crucial for rider safety, as it guarantees that the helmet has been tested for its protective capabilities.

While other options may touch on aspects like comfort or weight, these factors do not override the essential purpose of a helmet, which is to protect the rider's head during a crash. Therefore, the lack of proper certification indicates a potential deficiency in protective qualities, making safety the primary reason for choosing a DOT-approved helmet.