If you regularly ride a two-wheeled vehicle, scooter or motorcycle, you may be using what is known as a jet helmet or an “open” helmet. The benefits are many, especially in terms of price, as they tend to be cheaper than full face helmets. They also offer more comfort in the summer and give the impression of being less cramped.

On the other hand, in winter, logically, they warm a little less and also protect the head worse. Also for this last reason, Spain just made a surprising decision, also motivated by bad statistics.

Stop “open” headphones

Due to the alarming rise in deaths among two-wheeler users in 2023 in Spain, where 299 motorcyclists died, by 19% more than last yearsimply decided the Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlasca ban the wearing of jet helmets on the country’s roads.

From now on, only full-face and modular helmets are allowed. This decision, motivated by the desire to increase the safety of motorcyclists, could change the safety standards for two-wheeled users throughout Europe, and especially in France, even if the statistics are not as “alarming” as in Spain.

Soon in France?

Last year, with the exception of December, when data had not yet been released at the time of writing, France recorded 696 deaths among users of two-wheeled vehicleswhich is 5% less than in the corresponding period last year.

France currently has no plans for such a ban, but Spain may well lead the way in providing reflection, especially if the country’s performance improves next year.