Bicycle helmet use in Canada: The need for legislation to reduce the risk of head injury

Brent E. Hagel, Natalie L. Yanchar, Suzanne Beno, Claude Cyr, Jeffrey W. Scott, Mitchell Zelman

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

11 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Bicycling is a popular activity and a healthy, environmentally friendly form of transportation. However, it is also a leading cause of sport and recreational injury in children and adolescents. Head injuries are among the most severe injuries sustained while bicycling, justifying the implementation of bicycle helmet legislation by many provinces. There is evidence that bicycle helmet legislation increases helmet use and reduces head injury risk. Evidence for unintended consequences of helmet legislation, such as reduced bicycling and greater risk-taking, is weak and conflicting. Both research evidence to date and recognition of the substantial impact of traumatic brain injuries support the recommendation for all-ages bicycle helmet legislation.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)475-480
Number of pages6
JournalPaediatrics and Child Health
Volume18
Issue number9
Publication statusPublished - Nov 2013

ASJC Scopus Subject Areas

  • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health

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