I assume you checked really carefully on the inside for any cracks in the foam, as well as the outside.

Apart from that, no idea, love.

But that said, I am living proof that Helmets are Good. My crash occurred I guess when I least expected it, at least I don't remember anything about it. I did have a minor concussion and a bit of nerve damage to my right eye, which is healing up nicely.

That said, without my helmet, which was only a few weeks old (replacing one that was a couple of years old, at least), I think I would have been in much worse shape.

Bottom line, in my humble opinion at least, when in doubt, get a new (and a good) one. The alternative is totally not worth the $'s saved.

The major helmet manufacturers -- Bell, Specialized, Giro, and so on (see the thread started by ASammy1 for some ideas) -- are a good bet.

Good luck.