As warmer weather arrives in the Capital Region, more of us are hitting the pavement on bicycles. Whether you are teaching your child to ride without training wheels or commuting through town, there is one piece of safety gear that should never be left behind: a properly fitted helmet.
Our department has responded to incidents where a simple helmet could have completely changed the outcome. Head injuries are one of the most serious risks of a bicycle crash, yet they are also the most preventable.
Studies consistently show that wearing a bicycle helmet reduces the risk of head injuries by roughly 51 percent, and serious or fatal head trauma by up to 65 to 69 percent (Olivier & Creighton, 2017). A fall can happen in a split second, and asphalt is entirely unforgiving to a human skull, regardless of how old or experienced the rider.
What To Look For When Choosing a Helmet
When choosing head protection, look for a label inside the helmet indicating it meets the federal safety standards set by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) under 16 CFR Part 1203. This national standard guarantees that the helmet has undergone rigorous testing for impact protection, strap strength, and peripheral vision.
While safety is a smart choice for adults, it is a legal requirement for children. New York State law mandates that all bicyclists and passengers under the age of 14 must wear an approved safety helmet. Parents and guardians should remember that they can be fined up to $50 for non-compliance.
Setting a Good Example
More importantly, children learn by example. When adults wear their helmets on every single ride, it normalizes the habit for younger generations. Before you or your family push off from the driveway, ensure your helmets sit flat on top of the head, low on the forehead, and that the chin strap is securely fastened with room for no more than two fingers. Protect your mind, secure your helmet, and enjoy a safe ride.
References
Olivier, J., & Creighton, P. (2017). Bicycle injuries and helmet use: a systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Epidemiology, 46(1), 278–292. https://doi.org/10.1093/ije/dyw360