History
Ontario passed a law in 1995 requiring a helmet be worn by anyone under age 18 when bicycling. Originally the law was for everyone, but adults were removed from the law because of public outcry. Another try to include adults failed in 2005.
Fines
The fine for not wearing a helmet is $75, including court costs. Parents can be fined if a child under 16 is caught cycling without a helmet. Children themselves are fined if they are 16 or 17.
Controversey
Opponents of the law say the requirement discourages bicycling and gives a false sense of security. Opponents say reduced fatalities could just as well be due to fewer cyclists on the road. Many also claim injury statistics are exaggerated.
Prevention/Solution
Ontario officials say about three quarters of all cycling fatalities involve head injuries, and that many of those could have been prevented with protective helmets.
Studies
A study by the Journal of Pediatrics showed the death rate from bicycle accidents in Ontario had been cut in half since the helmet law was passed.
Types
Helmets must be those approved for bicycling and that are sold at cycle shops and sporting goods stores. Other types of helmets are not legal.
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.
