Bicycle helmets are your first line of defense against traumatic brain injuries when cycling. In Florida, the law requires all cyclists under 16 to wear properly fitted helmets that meet federal safety standards. But adhering to these standards isn’t just about legal compliance – it’s about protecting your most vital organ.
When a crash occurs, your helmet helps absorb and transfer the force that would otherwise directly impact your skull and brain. Even seemingly minor accidents can cause life-altering head injuries, and according to safety studies, wearing a helmet reduces the risk of head injury by up to 70%.
Common hazards cyclists face
When you ride a bicycle on Florida roads, you’re particularly vulnerable compared to motorists protected by thousands of pounds of metal. Common causes of crashes include:
- Distracted drivers texting or using phones
- Motorists failing to yield right-of-way at intersections
- Cars passing too closely (Florida law requires 3 feet of clearance)
- Sudden opening of vehicle doors into bike lanes
- Road hazards like potholes, debris and uneven surfaces
- Poor visibility during dawn, dusk and nighttime hours
Wearing a helmet doesn’t guarantee avoiding serious injuries in all these scenarios. However, it significantly reduces your risk of a traumatic brain injury.
Tips for buying and wearing a bike helmet
Simply purchasing any helmet isn’t enough. It must fit properly and you must wear it correctly to provide maximum protection. Vital tips to consider include:
- Bringing yourself or your child when buying a helmet to ensure proper sizing
- Checking that the helmet sits level on the head, not tilted forward or backward
- Ensuring side straps form a “V” shape under and slightly in front of the ears
- Adjusting the chin strap so it’s snug with only one or two fingers fitting between chin and strap
- Looking for the CPSC certification label indicating it meets federal safety standards
- Replacing any helmet that’s been in a crash, as the protective foam is designed for single-impact protection
- Cleaning helmets regularly with mild soap and water and avoiding harsh chemicals
An important note is that helmet fit may change with different hairstyles, so adjustments might be necessary to maintain proper protection.
Hold negligent parties accountable
Even when you follow every safety regulation and wear proper protective gear, you cannot control the actions of others. Negligent drivers who text while driving, fail to yield right-of-way or violate Florida’s bicycle safety laws put you at risk regardless of any precautions you take.
Documenting your injuries, the crash scene and gathering witness information after a bicycle accident is crucial. While you should always wear a helmet, Florida law states that not wearing one cannot be considered evidence of negligence in personal injury cases.
A skilled bicycle accident attorney can provide valuable assistance after an accident, dealing with insurance companies and ensuring you receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages and pain due to someone else’s carelessness.