WASHINGTON — Bike helmets aren’t just for kids. A new study shows that for cyclists of all age they can substantially reduce the severity of head injuries sustained in a crash.
Researchers at the University of Arizona took a close look at the medical records of more than 6,267 patients who suffered a traumatic brain injury while cycling.
They found those who wore helmets were 58 percent less likely to have a severe injury, and 59 percent less likely to die.
“That is a very, very significant number,” says Dr. Richard Zorowitz, a brain injury specialist with the MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital.
He said he was not surprised by the findings, which he said were in line with what he has seen professionally.
“My advice is wear a helmet at all times when you are out because you never know when you can hit something on a trail or whether a car is going to come out of nowhere,” he says, emphasizing that “it’s really a major source of protection.”
“If your head is going to hit the ground, you want a helmet,” Zorowitz said.
Local jurisdictions all have helmet regulations for kids, but adults are free to choose for themselves. Some say helmets really don’t help and the push for their use is coming largely from manufacturers.
But Zorowitz says he begs to differ and recalls telling those who questioned the need for a helmet that maybe they need to take a walk through an intensive care unit when the victims of traumatic bike accidents are treated.
The sight can be chilling.
“I have seen many people who are unconscious with multiple injuries,” he says. “And some of them don’t make it.”
Of course, a helmet is only good if it fits properly. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has some guidance for all cyclists, and a video on getting the best fit for kids.
Other information on cycling safety is available on the NHTSA website.
