Now, airbag-equipped 'motorcycle vest' to protect against severe spinal injuries

A new Spidi Neck DPS motorcycle vest has been designed, which is equipped with a built-in airbag system that could protect riders against severe spinal injuries.

Two airbags are installed into the collar of the vest and are attached to a small CO2 canister similar to those used by air guns, Fox News reported.

A tether connects the trigger for the canister to the motorcycle, and if a rider falls off it inflates the airbags within .2 seconds.

The bags fill the space between the rider's shoulders and helmet to help hold their head in place they slide or roll along the ground, and stay inflated for several minutes.

The technology was originally developed for motorcycle racing suits, but was adapted to the vest, which can be adjusted to fit over almost any type of clothing, and includes crotch straps to help keep it in place.

After a deployment the bag can be repacked, loaded with a new CO2 charge and used again, as long as it's not damaged in a crash, unlike a car airbag.