How Are Bicycle Helmets Designed to Prevent Head Injuries?

Discussion Protective helmets are used for multiple occupational and recreational activities. They are designed to protect the head from the common problems associated with the activity. For example, hard hats for construction workers are meant to protect against superior and lateral objects contacting the head as something can fall from above or a worker may contact an object as they are moving. The helmet had a plastic suspension ring that sits on the head providing space between the plastic helmet and the head allowing for the striking force to be dissipated over that distance before the helmet contacts the head. Helmets are designed for a specific purpose therefore are not appropriate for other activities. Information about various protective helmets can be found here. Bicycle riding is a great physical activity for individuals, families and groups. It is also a great activity for people of any age and modified bicycles are available for many people with disabilities. However any activity involves some risks including bike riding. In 2015 in the US, 818 bicyclists died, an increase of 12.2%. An additional 45,000 were reported injured. For children < 14 years of age, 44 died and 5000 were injured. Many cyclists (27%) who died had been drinking and 37% of motor vehicle/cycle crashes involved either the driver or cyclist drinking. Fatalities and injuries occurred more often during darkness hours too. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration notes: ...
Source: PediatricEducation.org - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Uncategorized Source Type: news