[Bicycle accidents in preschool children]

During the period from June 1st 1984 to May 31st 1987, 108 bicycle accidents were registered among children aged 0-6 years in the Emergency Department, Sundby Hospital. In 95 of the accidents, the child was riding the bicycle. The majority of the accidents were solo accidents where the child fell with the bicycle. 64% had head injuries and 11% of these were hospitalized for observation for concussion. Interviews made at the local nursery schools and play groups revealed that all children over the age of four years owned bicycles. Only 2% of the children employed bicycle helmets. The use of helmets by children is recommended. These should preferably also provide tooth protection.