由 home-healthhaven 
Riding a bike is a fantastic way to exercise without putting too much strain on your joints, and it’s also a great way to enjoy the outdoors. However, it’s important to remember that cycling comes with its risks. Regardless of how experienced you are, accidents can still occur. Many bike accidents result in minor injuries like cuts and bruises, but some can lead to serious head injuries. This is why wearing a helmet every time you ride is crucial.
## Important Facts About Head Injuries
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that around 1,000 people die each year in the U.S. from bike-related accidents. Out of these fatalities, 62 percent are due to head injuries.
Head injuries can be classified as either closed or open. A closed head injury occurs when the skull remains intact, but the brain gets injured by hitting the inside of the skull. Concussions are a common example and can range from mild to severe. On the other hand, open head injuries happen when the skull is fractured or pierced.
Head injuries often also affect the spine, sometimes leading to paralysis. Even if one survives such trauma, long-term neurological issues can arise.
## The Role of Helmets
Bike helmets act as a cushion for your skull, protecting you from open head injuries during a crash. Whether you’re biking on a dirt trail or a paved road, just one careless driver or an unexpected obstacle can throw you off your bike.
A study in Seattle, featured on the CDC website, found that bike helmets can reduce the risk of head injury by up to 85 percent.
## Choosing the Right Helmet
Not all helmets offer the same level of protection. It’s essential to pick one that fits well. Many modern helmets come with pads to ensure a snug fit. Always try on a helmet in the store before you buy it.
Make sure the helmet has a CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) label. This certification means the helmet has been tested for safety and will stay on during a crash.
## Wearing Your Helmet Correctly
A helmet can only protect you if it’s worn the right way. It should sit flat on your head without tilting back, so your forehead is covered. Always buckle the straps securely.
For children, double-check that their helmets are on correctly. Kids might not always know how tight the straps need to be.
## Don’t Think It Can’t Happen to You
Some people avoid wearing helmets because they think they’re not stylish. Yet even professional cyclists wear helmets because they understand the health risks involved and know accidents can happen at any time.
Others might believe they won’t have an accident, especially if they’ve been cycling for years on familiar paths. It’s a common mistake to think that serious accidents only happen to others. Unfortunately, anyone can have an accident. Wearing a helmet can keep you from becoming another statistic.