Bike riding is a great way for families to enjoy outdoor exercise and have fun together. However, bicycle-scooter-and skateboard related injuries are a common cause of injury in children. Following basic bike and helmet safety guidelines can greatly reduce the risk of accidents and serious injuries.
Facts and Statistics
- Up to 1,000 deaths occur annually due to bicycle accidents
- Bicycle accidents lead to approximately 500,000 emergency room visits each year
- Injuries most often occur in children ages 5–14 years
- Head injuries are the most common serious injury from bike accidents
- Proper helmet use reduces the risk of head injury by about 45%
- Fewer than half of children under age 14 wear a helmet consistently
Helmet Safety
Wearing a properly fitted helmet every time your child rides a bike, scooter, or skateboard is one of the most effective ways to prevent serious injury.
- All bicycle helmets sold in the United States must meet safety standards set by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
- Look for a label indicating the helmet meets CPSC safety standards
- Choose a helmet specifically designed for their activity, whether that be biking, scooter, or skateboard
- Helmets should:
- Sit level and snug on top of the head
- Not tilt forward or backward
- Have a chin strap that is snug and secure to prevent movement
- If your child hits their head in a bicycle crash, replace the helmet, even if it looks undamaged. The inner padding may be compromised and may not provide adequate protection.
- Children — and parents — should wear helmets every time they ride a bicycle – even in the driveway!
Safe Riding Tips
Teaching children safe riding habits helps prevent accidents.
- Children under age 10 should ride on the sidewalk when possible, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
- Wear bright or reflective clothing to improve visibility
- Use hand signals when turning or stopping
- Avoid riding at night, when visibility is reduced
Additional safety information is available from:
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/bicycle-safety
- Safe Kids Worldwide https://www.safekids.org/blog-free-tags/helmet-safety
- American Academy of Pediatrics https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article-abstract/108/4/1030/67307/Bicycle-Helmets?redirectedFrom=fulltext
Take-Home
Wearing a helmet is one of the simplest and most important steps children can take to stay safe while biking. Safe riding habits protect not only your child, but also others sharing the road.
If you have any questions or concerns about bicycle safety, please contact our office — we are happy to help.
