May 2000 -- Bicycle Safety for Children
Each year, approximately 500,000 people are non-fatally injured while riding a bicycle. Ninety percent of bicyclists killed in 2000 reportedly were not wearing helmets. Always wear an approved helmet when cycling. The head or neck is the most seriously injured part of the body in most fatally injured cyclists. Children should wear a helmet even if they are still riding along the sidewalk on training wheels. Some states have helmet laws that apply to young children.
Many bicycle injuries can be prevented by wearing a helmet. Always wear a correctly-fitting helmet when riding. Even children using tricycles or bikes with training wheels should wear helmets. Adults should also wear helmets at all times, including when riding with children. The
Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute
has more information on how to fit a helmet.
Be sure that helmets meet standards set by the
Consumer Product Safety Commission
(CPSC), the
Snell Memorial Foundation
or the
American Society for Testing and Materials
(ASTM). Look for a label or a sticker on the box or inside the helmet indicating that it meets the above standards.
Wear closed shoes when riding a bike.
Make sure your bike and your child's bike have good brakes, a front light and effective reflecting material.
Ride only in safe areas and at safe times.
Make sure bikes are the correct size for the rider.
Learn about bicycle etiquette, laws, and safe riding practices and teach your children about them.