# A motorcyclist is involved in a collision and slides along the road surface. Explain why wearing a helmet reduces the risk of serious head injury during this type of accident.

> Eduqas GCSE Physics — 4.3 Safety in public transport · Explain · 4 marks

> Motorcycle helmets are compulsory in the UK. They are designed with a hard outer shell and a thick layer of cushioning foam inside.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. The helmet increases the time over which the head decelerates (comes to rest)
2. A longer deceleration time means the force acting on the head is reduced
3. The foam compresses / deforms to absorb energy during the collision
4. Less force on the head means less damage to the skull / brain, reducing the risk of serious injury

## Related

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-motorcyclist-is-involved-in-a-0875e043) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.