Kids without bike helmets a scary sight

[Hamilton Reef]

Kids without bike helmets a scary sight

According to the National Safe Kids Campaign, 314,600 children ages 14 and younger were treated in hospital emergency rooms for bicycle-related injuries in 2001. Almost half of those hospitalized are diagnosed with traumatic brain injury.
Area medical experts estimate 800 or so children are treated at Grand Rapids hospitals for bike injuries each year.
The statistics about these injuries are voluminous and varied, but common patterns have emerged.

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[Ron L]

Hamilton, thanks for bringing up the issue again. When I was a member of the MMBA or involved in scouting, I used to put on safety presentations for helmet use. I can honestly say that a helmet saved my life once in a crash. I fell hard enough to crack the helmet and still ended up with a fractured eye socket (Zygoma?). So, yes, I can say that I HAVE bumped my head. :rolleyes:

Not only are the numbers huge, but the $$ involved is staggering. The cost of caring for a TBI patient can easily add up to over a million dollars. :eek: All because someome didn't want to take a few seconds to put on a helmet.

Remember, it's important not only to wear a helmet, but to fit it and wear it properly.