Cycle Helmets

Why should cyclists wear helmets?

Helmets should be worn because they reduce the degree of injury. To date there is no UK law that says that you must wear a cycle helmet.

Hopefully you will not be involved in an accident, but if you are, wearing a cycle helmet could reduce your chances of sustaining a serious head injury.

Remember though, that although wearing a helmet will help to reduce the risk of you being seriously hurt if you come off your bicycle, it will not prevent accidents.

Many accidents involving cyclists occur at roundabouts and junctions. Motorists sometimes find it difficult to see cyclists. However, the best way to be safe is to avoid the accident in the first place by making sure that you can be clearly seen at all times on your bicycle, and to be aware that the motorist may not have seen you.

Buying a Cycle Helmet

When buying a helmet please look for the CE mark and that the cycle helmet meets one of the following standards:

BS EN 1078:1997 (European Standard)
BS 6863:1989 (British Standard, being replaced by the European one)
SNELL B.95 (American Standard)

If your cycle helmet receives any hard knocks or you have an accident in it, you should look to replace it. You may not be able to see any damage but its effectiveness could be seriously reduced. Otherwise your helmet should last you for approximately 5 years.

Correct wearing position for a cycle helmet

It should be level, not tilted backwards.
The forehead should not be exposed.
It should rest a little above the eyebrows.
You should be able to see clearly.
The straps should go round the ears, not over them.
It should fit snugly all around the head.

All pupils taking part in the City Council cycle proficiency scheme must wear a helmet. Helmets are checked at the beginning of the course to ensure that they are secure and pupils are given advice as to the correct position for the helmet.

The City Council has cycle helmets for purchase, please look at the cycle products page of the website.

Link 11 ( MB)