Important Tips
Using a bicycle as your primary means of transportation can be fun, cost effective, and help keep you physically fit. However, bicycle riding poses many risks, even for the experienced rider. Scraped knees and elbows are frequent, but even a minor spill may result in serious head and brain injury.
Statistics show that between 70% and 80% of all fatal bicycle crashes involves head injuries. Although helmet usage is very low,15% to 18%, studies have proven that bicycle helmets are 85% to 88% effective in mitigating total head and brain injuries.
In addition to using helmets, keep in mind the following safety tips:
- Check safety equipment before riding.
- Obey all traffic laws.
- Ride in single file.
- Ride as close to the right edge of the road as possible.
- When riding at night, use proper lighting.
- Keep both hands on the handlebars.
Selecting and Fitting a Bicycle Helmet
- Choose a bike helmet that meets current safety standards.
- Use foam pads inside to fit the helmet snugly so it does not move on the head.
- Fit helmets so that the front is just above the top of the eyebrows. Teach your child to wear it this way.
- Adjust the two side-straps so they meet in a "V" right under each ear.
- Adjust the chinstrap snugly under the chin. Make it tight enough so the helmet pulls down when the child opens his mouth.
- Check often to make sure straps stay snug and the helmet stays level on the head.
Remember to Register your Bicycle!
Bicycle Registration Form