Bicycle Helmet Use and Misuse in Metropolitan Adelaide
Background: Prevention and amelioration of cycling related traumatic brain injury requires the appropriate use of bicycle helmets. Legislation mandates the wearing of bicycle helmets that comply with Australian Standards.
Objective: This pilot study undertakes a preliminary survey on the quantity and quality of bicycle helmet usage and behaviours based on a selected sample of bicycle riders in metropolitan Adelaide.
Method: This was an observational pilot study that involved the standardised collection of data relating to bicycle helmet usage over a six month period. A data collection tool was developed. Bicycle helmet wearing behaviours were systematically observed for all cyclists and recorded over a number of defined observational locations in metropolitan Adelaide during designated periods of time.
Results: Data were systematically collected for 235 cyclists. Preliminary analysis has indicated that 20% of cyclists were not wearing a helmet at the time they were observed, and of these, 33% were carrying their helmets on the bicycle handle-bars. Of those cyclists who were wearing their helmet, 6% percent had the straps fastened but excessively loose, and 5% had the straps unfastened. The observed position of the helmet on the head was assessed to be incorrect in 20% of the helmeted cyclists. Of all cyclists observed, just over 50% were wearing their helmet correctly. Findings on the observations of helmet fit, use of baseball caps beneath the helmets and use of audiophones will also be presented.
Conclusion: The observed proportions of non-compliant helmet usage amongst cyclists are of clinical and public health concern. Bicycle helmet use and wearing behaviour requires further epidemiological research and may have implications for bicycle helmet design, user education and enforcement. The relevance of the study and findings in terms of possible consequences for bicycle riders and legislators, and opportunities for further research will be discussed.