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In a number of countries mandatory helmet laws have been introduced for children, and there is frequently pressure for new laws.
At first sight this may seem a beneficial policy to protect vulnerable cyclists, but there are many reasons why such a measure may cause more harm to children than the problem it seeks to address.
This case study examines the evidence on the wider consequences of a child helmet law.
Based on a paper produced originally with a UK focus, its content is equally applicable to any country.
The principal threats to child health and life expectancy
Cycling is a safe and healthy activity
Cycling gets safer the more people who do it
Helmets deter cycling and lead to poorer health
The benefits of helmets in reducing injury are greatly overstated
Many other everyday activities would benefit more from helmets than cycling
Helmet laws can make it a crime for children to take part in a healthy activity
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