Bicycle helmet law

We’ve had a few queries recently regarding the specifics of bicycle helmet law. Here’s the basic gist: It’s not compulsory. At the moment neither you nor your kids have to wear a bike helmet by law.

Not law. But a really, really good idea (not a close relation to law).

Take a look at these figures we stole from the World Health Organisation:

Bicycle deaths by helmet use, 1994-2005
      No helmet Helmet  Total
Year  Num  %    Num  %   Num
2000  622 90    50   7   689
2001  616 84    60   8   729
2002  589 89    54   8   663
2003  527 85    57   9   619
2004  602 83    87  12   722
2005  673 86    76  10   782

Particularly with relation to children. If an adult chooses to not wear a helmet, they are usually mindful enough (and ugly enough etc), to bear the brunt of their decision. Children who are supposedly under the protection of adults, will not be as aware of the dangers.

The Bicycle Helmet Initiative Trust are trying to get the law changed, but till then, it's up to you.

When you're choosing a bicycle helmet, look for the BS EN 1078 Snell Certification, make sure it fits and most importantly wear it! Bicycle helmets are the most effective way to prevent serious head injuries.

Don't forget that you actually want the child's cycle helmet to get used. Don't buy a mushroom shaped monstrosity and wonder why you keep finding it hidden at the back of the cupboard. There's plenty of funky shapes and colours to choose from in our kids bicycle helmet range. Adults are hardly lacking in choice too, as the entire range of trail and road bicycle helmets shows.