Helmet use of adolescent cyclists at Crescent School in Toronto, Canada

Numerous studies have highlighted that bicycle helmets reduce the risk of head injury; the purpose of this study was to determine the helmet-wearing rate of adolescent boys and the reasons for those who do not wear helmets. A questionnaire was developed and completed by 257 students. A higher percentage of older students reported a long bike commute to school (over 20 min). The frequency of helmet use and awareness of helmet legislation was lower amongst the older students. Common reasons for not using a helmet across all ages included its uncomfortable nature, the confidence of the rider's cycling ability to not crash, and negligence. Further reminders and educational sessions regarding the importance of helmets could help to increase the helmet use of students across the grades.