Remember kids... always wear a helmet. (The almighty bikeradar helmet thread)

• Saturday July 19, 2008
  
• Article history
  It's a relief to know that common sense does still have a place. As Claire Armitstead points out (Two wheels, G2, July 17), in the past month or so numerous newspaper column inches have been devoted to the curious aim of trying to persuade people not to wear helmets while cycling. The main argument seems to be that the thought of wearing a helmet puts people off cycling and for the greater good of society we cannot allow this to happen - regardless of the number of people who sustain brain injuries as a result. It is claimed there is no proof that wearing a helmet can actually save your life or prevent you from sustaining a brain injury. As Claire Armitstead says, wearing a helmet must protect one's head more than not wearing one.
  To conform to British Standards, a helmet sold in this country must be able to absorb 12mph of energy on impact. Speaking as a cyclist in London, I would much prefer 12mph of energy to be absorbed by my helmet rather than my skull. Every year we help thousands of people who have had their lives shattered as a result of being knocked off their bikes. Some, like 33-year-old Kirsty, were wearing helmets and were told by doctors that wearing a helmet most certainly saved their lives. Others, like Simon, 42, spend every day wishing they been wearing one as they wouldn't then struggle with everyday tasks like counting out change or tying shoelaces.
  I offer this invite to the sceptics: come along to a Headway house and see for yourself the damage that a brain injury can cause. Maybe then you will be better qualified to make the decision of whether or not to wear a helmet next time you get on your bike.
  Luke Griggs
  Headway - the brain injury association
  
  

http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2008/jul/19/transport.cyclingholidays