There has never been a mandatory rule requiring “wearing a helmet when cycling.” A research team in Hong Kong analyzed 864 cycling accident cases resulting in injuries or fatalities last year, among which 4 people died, 151 suffered brain trauma, and there was 1 case each of severe and moderate disability. Only 7 individuals (about 4.6%) were wearing helmets, and those with milder brain trauma all had helmets on.

       The research team analyzed 40 patients with brain trauma and found that even those rated as having “made a good recovery” still experienced varying degrees of functional impairment. For example, a young amateur cyclist who was not wearing a helmet was hit from behind by another bike, thrown off the bicycle, and landed forehead-first, resulting in a right epidural hematoma and a fracture of the right frontal skull bone. Despite eventually making a good recovery, he continued to suffer from persistent dizziness and mental sluggishness. Another cyclist, also not wearing a helmet, fell off the bike and landed headfirst, causing an acute cerebral hematoma that led to severe disability. He was hospitalized for three months and experienced serious cognitive and communication issues.

       Experts say that most cycling injuries occur when riders are traveling at high speeds and lose control while going downhill. Even if the head does not hit the ground during a traffic collision, the violent impact can cause a concussion and result in brain trauma. According to foreign studies, wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of brain injury by 63% to 88% and can also reduce facial injuries. Experts urge cycling enthusiasts to wear helmets.

       Xingzhe Wuyu Outdoor Forum Cycling Knowledge (http://bbs.xzwyu.com) Bicycle Network