There has never been a mandatory rule requiring "cyclists to wear helmets." A research team in Hong Kong analyzed 864 cycling accident cases resulting in injuries or fatalities last year. Among them, four people died, 151 suffered traumatic brain injuries, and there was one case each of severe and moderate disability. Only seven individuals (about 4.6%) were wearing helmets, and those with milder brain trauma were all wearing helmets.

       The research team analyzed 40 patients with traumatic brain injuries and found that even those classified as having "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 bicycle, thrown off his bike, and landed forehead-first, resulting in a right epidural hematoma and right frontal skull fracture. Despite eventually making a good recovery, he continued to experience persistent dizziness and mental sluggishness. Another cyclist, also not wearing a helmet, fell off his bike and landed headfirst, causing an acute cerebral hematoma that led to severe disability. He had to be hospitalized for three months and suffered from significant cognitive and communication issues.

       Experts say that most injuries in cycling accidents 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 lead to brain injury. According to foreign studies, wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of brain injury by 63% to 88%, as well as decrease the likelihood of facial injuries. Experts urge cycling enthusiasts to wear helmets.

       Traveler's Forum Outdoor Cycling Knowledge (http://bbs.xzwyu.com) Bicycle Network