Bike Helmets on Campus

Do I really need one just to ride to class?  You know our answer already, but here is how we got there.

First, ask your Physics prof what can happen to a head dropped from the normal riding height, say about 5 feet up, when it hits the ground. Your prof will tell you about g forces the head can experience from that drop height. Bike helmets are tested in a two meter drop, a little higher, but that five feet is all the impact you need to mess up your brain. You don't need forward speed at all, although it can make it worse--ask the Physics prof about vectors.

And what do the stats say? There are 800 people killed on bikes in the US every year, and a half million, more or less, who end up in emergency rooms being stitched, fittted with a cast or just bandaged over road rash. We don't know how many of those were on a campus when they crashed. But we do know that you are making a major investment in yourself for a lifetime of good returns, and you don't want a fuddled brain to bring that to a halt. People with head injuries often can't remember what they were able to do before the crash and these effects can last forever. At your age you have a lot of years in which to look forward. You are just beginning to realize how much pleasure in life comes from being smart and educated. You don't want to take a chance with that because it means a lot to you.

Helmets should always be worn when riding your bike.  You can lock it with your bike and it won't mess up your hair much on a short ride. Give it a try.

Helmets made for U.S. sale after 1999 must meet the US Consumer Product Safety Commission standard, so look for a CPSC sticker when purchasing a new helmet.  For more information on bicycle helmet safety and for tips on purchasing a helmet, please visit the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute's web site.

Page maintained by Colleen O'Neill  feedback welcomed. 
Last Update: 3/15/06