To prevent potentially severe or even life-threatening head injuries, every adult and child should wear a bicycle helmet when cycling. Since accidents can happen anywhere, wear your helmet on short and long rides, on city streets and park sidewalks. It is important to use a helmet that fits properly and to fasten it securely, because a helmet can only protect your head if it is used correctly.
Statistics
According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 1,000 people die each year from bicycle-related injuries, and over 500,000 cyclists are treated in emergency rooms. Almost two-thirds of bicycle-related deaths and one-third of emergency room visits are due to head injuries. Most of the deaths are related to collisions with motor vehicles, and most of the non-fatal injuries are caused by falls or crashes. The CDC estimates that if 100 percent of bicyclists that died in accidents were wearing helmets, about half of the deaths could have been prevented.
Choosing a Helmet
Buy a new helmet if possible, because old or used helmets may have been in a collision, rendering the unsafe. Look for a seal from the CPSC or the ANSI that proves the helmet is approved by safety organizations. Try the helmet on before buying to make sure that it fits snugly, does not obscure your vision and is comfortable. If a helmet is slightly loose, you may be able to make it more snug by adding cushioning pads that come with the helmet.
Wearing the Helmet
Do not wear a hat under your helmet, and do not wear a ponytail unless you have a ponytail port in your helmet. Place the helmet on your head and fasten the chin strap. You should not be able to move the helmet from side to side, or lift it from your head. If you can, adjust the straps and padding until it fits properly. The helmet should sit level on your head, and should not tilt forward or backward.
More Bicycle Safety
While your helmet can keep your head safe in case of an accident, the best way to avoid injury is to prevent a crash in the first place. Always ride on the right side of the road and obey all traffic signs and laws. Signal with your arm before turning. Practice good bicycle maintenance: keep your tires properly inflated, and make sure that your chain is oiled and your breaks are working. Avoid riding at night if possible, and use reflectors and light-colored clothing to make you more visible to drivers.
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