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Introduction and scope
The Tasmania helmet law came into effect
from 1st January 1991. The law applies to all ages of bicyclists riding on
public streets, but not elsewhere.
Compliance and enforcement
Community levels of helmet use whilst
cycling are not known.
A study based solely on hospital presentations
[1] in 1991 and 1992 found the following post-law levels of
helmet use:
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0 - 9 years | 10 - 14 years | 15 years + |
| On-road | 74.0% | 75.0% | 51.0% |
| Off-road | 28.6% | 50.0% | 40.0% |
The law is strictly enforced in at least some localities.
Effect on casualties
No official assessment has been published.
A study [1] that looked at post-law injuries only was
ambiguous. Among young children (under 9 years) helmet use coincided with a
lower risk of head injury. However, the incidence of head injury was identical
for helmeted and bareheaded children 10 - 14 years off-road and for older riders
on-road.
Effect on cycle use
Not known.
Cost benefit
No analysis.
References and related studies
[1]
Jacobson, G.A., Blizzard, L., Dwyer, T. Bicycle injuries: road trauma is not the only concern.
1998. Australian and New Zealand
Journal of Public Health 1998 Jun;22(4):451-5. 
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