Lesson 1 of 6
Helmets & Two-Wheeler Safety
6 min read · India-specific
Two-wheelers account for the largest share of road deaths in India. A properly worn ISI-marked helmet reduces the risk of a fatal head injury by up to 42% and serious injury by up to 69%.
Why helmets matter
Most fatal two-wheeler crashes involve head impact. An ISI (BIS IS 4151) certified helmet absorbs the shock that would otherwise reach the skull. A cap, half-helmet without certification, or an unbuckled helmet offers almost no protection.
For the rider AND the pillion
Under the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act 2019, the pillion rider must also wear a helmet. Children above 4 years should wear a child-sized crash helmet. Never carry more than one pillion.
How to wear it right
Fit snugly, sit level on the forehead (two-finger gap above eyebrows), chin strap tight enough that only two fingers fit under it. Replace the helmet after any crash or every 5 years.
Key rules
- Always use an ISI-marked full-face or open-face helmet
- Fasten the chin strap every single ride, even for 200 metres
- Pillion rider must also wear a helmet — it is the law
- Never ride with more than one pillion