Head injuries and the role of helmets in cyclist safety

As a cyclist, safety should always be your first concern, especially with no protective barriers to mitigate the impact of a collision. Head injuries remain common among victims of bicycle accidents and studies highlight the role helmets might play in protecting a cyclist’s well-being. 

Bicycle accident statistics

According to studies, head injuries are a factor in one of every three bicycle accidents and such concerns continue to be a leading cause of injury or death among cyclists. These injuries can range anywhere from a mild concussion to a TBI, the latter of which could leave a person facing long-term or even permanent health complications. While studies indicate that helmets might not always prevent cyclists from suffering head injuries in a crash, these objects could substantially mitigate the severity of one’s injuries. 

Researchers state that studies on the role of bicycle helmets in cyclist safety have shown that wearing a helmet can reduce the risks one might suffer severe or permanent head injuries by nearly 60%. Studies also indicate that wearing a helmet also lowers the risk that head trauma from a collision could prove fatal. As cyclists might not always find it possible to react to the actions of a negligent driver quickly enough to evade danger, wearing a helmet could mean the difference between suffering a minor head injury or developing a traumatic brain injury. 

Serious injuries

Bicycle accidents can occur in the blink of an eye and could leave a cyclist facing serious or life-changing harm. While there may be little one can do to keep the actions of reckless driving from creating a dangerous situation, there could be certain options to help those who face such challenges prepare to protect their future interests. Following the accident, a person in Delaware could consult with an attorney for advice on his or her available legal avenues and assistance in preparing to seek restitution through a personal injury claim.