5 reasons you should wear a helmet

A bike ride is a great activity to get outdoor exercise, save gas money and spend time with family and friends. Unfortunately, no matter what your age or experience level, you could take a tumble or crash into something, which is why it’s important for everyone to wear a helmet when on two wheels. 

1. Helmets reduce the risk of serious injury or death

When analyzing dozens of studies involving injured cyclists, researchers found helmets can save lives. According to the meta-analysis, the use of bicycle helmets:  

• Reduces head injury by 48%.
• Reduces traumatic brain injury by 53%.
• Reduces the number of cyclists killed or seriously injured by 34%.

The research did not find a difference in effects between adults and children, meaning helmets benefit everyone. 

2. Helmets absorb some of the energy produced by impact

Crashes can happen on the road, your driveway or a bike path. Whether you come in contact with a tree, the ground, a car or another bike, the impact can cause damage to your bike, body and brain. 

How helmets work

Helmets contain a hard protective shell and a foam layer. The foam absorbs the impact and spreads the energy out, so your head doesn’t directly take the hit. The energy from the collision is slowed or stopped before it reaches your brain. 

In a bike helmet, the foam layer is often a crushable foam, meaning after it’s damaged, you’ll need to throw away the helmet. Helmets used for activities like football and hockey also have an absorbing layer, but they are designed to withstand more than one impact. 

3. Helmets increase your visibility on the road

A big part of bike safety is being seen by others, especially drivers on the road. This involves making eye contact before proceeding at an intersection, using hand signals and following traffic laws. Another way to be visible is to wear bright or reflective clothing which can include your helmet. 

Ways to make your helmet stand out 

It is not recommended that you alter your helmet in any way that could compromise its structural integrity or safety features, however, there are ways to make it more noticeable. 

• Lights. Some helmets come with built-in LED lights or you can add one to your helmet. 
• Reflectors. If your helmet does not have a reflector on it, you can add reflective tape. 
• Bright colors. Especially in the daylight, brightly colored helmets can stand out and make you more visible. 

4. Helmets provide some protection from the elements

It’s a good idea to check the forecast before you take off on your bike as a pop-up shower may appear unexpectedly. Should Mother Nature take a turn, a helmet will give you a little extra protection from the rain. On a sunny day, the visor of a helmet may also protect your eyes and shield the sun. 

5. Adults who wear helmets set good examples for kids

Children will often model the behaviors of their parents and role models. Therefore, by wearing a helmet every time, you’re setting up your child to develop this habit rooted in safety. It also teaches children that these precautions can limit injuries and save lives no matter how old or experienced you are. Helmets should be a lifelong habit. 

Tips for selecting a helmet

When shopping for clothes or shoes, you may choose to size up for your growing child. However, with helmets, you’ll want to find one that fits them right. That also means adjusting chin straps or replacing helmets as your child grows.  Before you begin to shop, you’ll want to correctly measure your child’s head. Follow these eight easy steps for fitting a bike helmet. 

Keep in mind that helmet safety is important for you and your children during all kinds of activities like skateboarding, scooter riding, contact sports and when using heavy equipment and vehicles like ATVs. We hope we’re never involved in a crash, but by being prepared, we can limit the likelihood of serious injury