Charity Advises on The Importance of Children Wearing a Helmet

With an increase in the number of children experiencing cycling accidents, charity ROSPA has provided advice on how to maximise a child’s safety when using a bike. The advice comes with a helpful video and printable checklist.

At Jefferies, we think it’s important to take as many steps as possible to prevent accidents. The advice provided by ROSPA can make a big difference in preventing accidents and injuries in children.

Nick Lloyd, head of Road Safety said: “We think it’s amazing that so many more people are getting on their bikes, and so many young people may now be starting a lifetime of cycling, with all the health and environmental benefits that will bring, but we need to ensure they are properly protected when riding.”

The advice comes in 5 helpful points:

1. Carry out a regular safety check (tyres at the correct pressure, brakes working and nothing loose like spokes, saddle or handlebars). There’s a helpful video and checklist to help you.
2. Wearing a cycle helmet will help provide protection to the head in the event of a collision or falling off (remember to replace if damaged). Follow the manufacturer’s fitting instructions
3. Make sure you’re not wearing any loose clothing or shoe laces, which could become tangled in the chain or wheels
4. Parents should ride with children to their competence and ability. Get them to demonstrate that they can safely control their bike and deal with other traffic.
5. For older children, if they are riding away from home plan the route with them; use cycle tracks and avoid busy roads and junctions if possible.

After following this advice, unfortunately, accidents can still happen. Sometimes this is due to simple mistakes or a blameless accident.

If your child is involved in an accident and suffers injuries due to someone else’s unfair, improper or negligent behaviour then a compensation claim should be made.

To learn more and to discuss your potential claim in confidence, contact our team on 0333 358 3034. Alternatively, complete our online contact form to arrange an initial no-obligation telephone consultation with a member of our expert team.