Why is it important to wear a bike helmet?
A simple plastic bike helmet can mean the difference between a harmless spill on a bike and a serious or even fatal head injury, but only if the rider wears it correctly.FunctionAccording to Brake, bike helmets protect cyclists’ heads from hitting the ground in a road or traffic accident. This reduces the chance of concussion or other head injuries.EffectivenessAccording to a study published by the American Academy of Pediatrics, a properly worn bicycle helmet can reduce the risk of serous brain injury by up to 88 percent in an accident.ChildrenChildren need bike helmets even more than adults do. They tend to make more driving errors and have less physical control over their bikes, while their smaller size makes them harder for drivers to spot.SelectionRiders must select a helmet that meets recognized safety standards, fits securely on the head, and sports a bright color to help the rider stand out in traffic.Proper UseBicyclists must get into the habit of always wearing a bike helmet