In order to ensure an amazing summer on your bike, here are a few biking safety tips and reminders.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the popularity of biking has exploded. Biking is a great way to experience the feeling of freedom that we have missed so much.

Did you know? Facts about biking safety

• Less than 50% of Montrealers wear a helmet when riding a bike. This proportion is even WORSE if we look at teenagers. THAT’S BAD!

Why does it matter? Because, on average, more than 70% of cyclists treated at the Montreal General Hospital’s Trauma Centre were not wearing a helmet when the incident occurred.

• In fact, 58% of injured cyclists admitted to the Montreal General Hospital are treated for a head injury.
• Traumatic head injury is the leading cause of death among cyclists and skateboarders.
• Children between the ages of 5 and 14 are at the highest risk for bicycle related injuries.

But remember, putting a helmet on your head is not all to ensure biking safety. Being aware of your surroundings, following traffic regulations and respecting fellow bikers, pedestrians and vehicle drivers are equally important.

This summer, we encourage you to THINK WITH YOUR HELMET:

1. Put your favorite reflective stickers on your helmet
2. Dare to wear the most flashy-coloured bike helmet!
3. Congratulate your friend who is wearing his/her helmet when riding their bike
4. Think With Your Helmet and send us a picture on Instagram @Code_Trauma

Be proud to protect your head…after all, you only have one. So keep it SAFE.

Look at our brochure for a handy reminder about proper helmet fit using the 2V2 technique. 

– Alexandra Germain, McGill Medical Student and “Think with your Helmet” Student Ambassador