A cyclist's helmet is his most important piece of safety equipment. Head injuries cause around 1300 deaths per year in the United States. However, helmet use in these accidents is extremely low. The risk of head injury declines by 88% in cyclists wearing helmets.
Currently there is no federal law stating mandatory helmet use for any age group. Some states have passed their own legislature concerning helmet use, and others have bills still in debate.
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Alabama |
State-wide |
Under 16 |
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California |
State-wide |
Under 18 |
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Connecticut |
State-wide |
Under 12 |
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Delaware |
State-wide |
Under 16 |
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Florida |
public property only |
Under 16 |
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Georgia |
State-wide |
Under 16 |
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Maryland |
State-wide |
Under 16 |
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Massachusetts |
State-wide |
Under 13 |
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New Jersey |
State-wide |
Under 14 |
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New York |
State-wide |
Under 14 |
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Oregon |
State-wide |
Under 16 |
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Pennsylvania |
State-wide |
Under 12 |
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Rhode Island |
State-wide |
Under 9 |
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Tennessee |
State-wide |
Under 12 |
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West Virginia |
State-wide |
Under 15 |
SOURCE: Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute
Having the correct helmet is important. A helmet should fit your head snugly (you may need to use the extra adhesive pads provided with the helmet). When trying on a helmet, give it the shake test. You should be able to shake and move your head without the helmet also moving or falling out of place. This is especially important for a mountain biker who plans to be riding rough trails. Some helmet manufacturers have come up with new designs that lock and hold on to your head holding the helmet in place. While this is not necessary it may be beneficial. Also while looking for a helmet think about the weight and air resistance/flow through the helmet.
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