In 2009, there were 630 bicycle-related fatalities in the U.S., and 91 percent of the people who were killed were not wearing helmets, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Young children and male cyclists are most frequently the victims of cycling injuries, but all riders can benefit from the protection of a helmet.
Standards
In 1999, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission created mandatory cycling helmet guidelines for all helmets sold in the country; prior to that, the guidelines were voluntary. A CPSC-certified helmet is designed to withstand multiple impacts, with strong straps to keep the helmet in place. Cycling helmets made for children age 5 and younger cover a larger portion of the head for added protection.
Legislation
As of January 2011, all but 13 U.S. states have some form of law mandating the use of helmets while riding a bicycle. Many laws only apply to children younger than a certain age, usually 16 or 18. However, some municipalities have laws that apply to adults as well, and some laws also require helmets for use with inline skates and skateboards.
Fit
A helmet can significantly reduce the risk of a head injury while biking if it's the right size and fit for its wearer. As a starting point, measure the circumference of your head just above your eyebrows and consult the helmet manufacturer's size conversation chart. Since helmet sizes aren't standardized, manufacturers don't use the same sizing conventions; thus, it's necessary to try on helmets in person. A well-fitting helmet will rest flat on top of your head, not at an angle, and the front should be no more than two finger widths above your eyebrows. The chin strap, when fastened, shouldn't be so tight as to be uncomfortable, but you should be able to fit no more than two fingers between it and your skin. If you're able to move the helmet back and forth or from side to side on your head, the straps need to be tightened. Helmets include sizing pads that can be added or removed to adjust the fit and comfort of the helmet.
Considerations
Only wear bike helmets that bear the CPSC label certifying that it meets current federal safety standards. Any cycling helmet that has been involved in an impact-related accident should be replaced, even if it doesn't appear to be damaged. As children grow, their helmets need to be adjusted for fit or replaced.
References
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety: Fatality Facts 2009 -- Bicycles
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission; CPSC Issues New Safety Standard for Bike Helmets; 1999
- Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute; Helmet Laws for Bicycle Riders; Jan. 2011
- NHTSA; Easy Steps to Properly Fit a Bicycle Helmet; September 2006
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