History
The idea of a bicycle helmet law for children has come up several times in Minnesota, but so far it has not managed to pass. The effort continues, and the state legislature could take it up at any time.
Opposition
Opponents of the law are against the requirement itself. Some just do not want government to tell them what to do. Others feel helmets are not that effective and favor education programs instead.
Benefits
The Minnesota Health Department supports a bike helmet law, noting that two-thirds of the 600,000 yearly injuries on bicycles are among people under the age of 16. They believe the helmets would prevent many injuries.
Helmet Use Encouraged
Opponents of the law generally support use of helmets. There are many towns and cities in Minnesota that offer helmets for sale to children at reduced prices. The use of helmets is encouraged by most organizations.
Function
While requiring use of helmets seems to be unpopular in Minnesota, there is a great deal of attention paid to encouraging their use and safety programs. Many cities in Minnesota have cycling safety education programs.
Prevention/Solution
The Brain Injury Association of Minnesota says 88 percent of all brain injuries caused by bicycle accidents could be prevented by the wearing of helmets.
Article Written By James Jordan
James Jordan has been a writer and photographer since 1980. He has worked for newspapers in Arkansas, Tennessee, South Carolina and Kansas, winning state press association awards for writing, photography and page design. In 1995 he received his master's in Christian education and completed two years of Ancient Greek at the graduate level. Jordan holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism.
