Bike Safety
Each year, more than 500,000 people in the U.S. are treated in emergency departments and at least 700 people die as a result of bicycle-related injuries. Sixty million Americans bicycle for exercise or transportation.
Head Injuries:
- Crashes involving bicycles are a primary cause of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and nearly half of bike-related hospitalizations are diagnosed as (TBI).
- A helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by 85 percent.
Cardio Exercise:
- Bicycling reduces your risk of coronary heart disease, stroke and other chronic/life- threatening diseases.
- It strengthens the immune system and helps relieve anxiety/depression.
- Depending on body weight, metabolism and muscle mass, bicycling (10 mph) for one minute can burn from 6 to 14 calories.
Bicycle Safety:
- It is important to test the brakes before riding.
- Make sure handlebars are straight.
- Wear a helmet that fits your head (not too large or small). It is also important to wear it flat -- not tilted back at an angle.
- Check the tires for cracking and make sure there is enough air in them.
- Tighten loose fittings and lubricate the chain.
- If the bike was in an accident, have it checked out before riding it again.
Sources: CDC-National Center for Injury Prevention, Pedestrian/Bicycle Information Center, National Safe Kids Campaign and Washington and Shady Grove Adventist Hospitals . The Health Tip of the Week is for educational purposes only. For additional information, consult your physician. Please feel free to copy and distribute this health resource.
Updated March 2, 2007 | Maintained by Debra Tipton
