With the arrival of spring, be wary of bikes on the street
By: Surjit Singh Flora
(SAMAJ WEEKLY)- With the arrival of spring, the rain showers bring forth beautiful blossoms. The weather is warming up, and it’s delightful to see children riding bicycles on the sidewalk, driveways, or running errands around the neighborhood. While adults ride motorcycles, on the highways and local streets. It’s very important to consider their safety, and their well-being.
Ontario figures are worrying too. Over 6,000 motorcycle accidents occurred in the province in 2020. The accidents killed 200 people and injured almost 1,500. Statistics show that motorbike accidents may have serious repercussions.
While, according to the Canadian Automobile Association and Statistics Canada, around 7500 cyclists are badly injured each year, with the majority of them occurring during rush hour. Every year, an average of 74 Canadians are killed in bike accidents, with 73% of those instances involving a motor vehicle. Approximately one in every three bike deaths may have occurred due to a failure to follow road safety standards.
The most frequent bicycle injuries include head injuries, wrist or forearm injuries, knee injuries, neck and back injuries, tingling and numbness, and urogenital disorders.
Bike accidents sometimes cause head injuries. Head injuries may vary from facial cuts to brain injuries. Overuse or road bumps might cause wrist or forearm problems. Cyclist’s palsy and carpal tunnel syndrome are common biking wrist injuries. Ride with appropriate hand posture to avoid them. Stretch your hands and wrists and use cushioned gloves before biking.
There are also many knee injuries. Biker’s knee, medial plica syndrome, jumper’s knee, and iliotibial band syndrome are knee ailments. Orthotics, cleats, and cycling shoe wedges reduce overuse knee problems. Oversitting causes most neck and back injuries. Pain predominates. Frequent neck stretches and shoulder shrugs may help you stay flexible and in shape.
Tight cycling shoes and exertional compartment syndrome may cause tingling and numbness. Pressure squeezes the lower leg nerves. Surgical release removes pressure. Long rides create urogenital issues in males. Pudendal neuropathy, a common urogenital condition, results from genital compression. This causes numbness or agony. Wider bike seats with pressure-relief padding minimize urogenital problems.
In addition to bike safety equipment, riding alone, when necessary, may help keep you safe. That’s not your only choice! Wear a helmet Always make sure your youngster wears a bike helmet.
Bicycle accidents may cause severe head injuries. Helmets prevent fatal head trauma. 85% fewer serious head injuries with a helmet. Remember that any helmet is insufficient. The helmet should fit well and be the right size. Fitted helmets protect the brain, face, and head. Only a bike helmet. Do not allow your teen to wear a sports helmet or hard hat. Bike helmets are great for head-first falls. Try these helmet tips:
After an accident, replace the helmet. Avoid wearing a helmet over a cap. Reflective sticker on the helmet make you visible to drivers. Avoid flinging the helmet around to avoid damage. Put on a helmet properly. Ensure it stays upright. It should cover the forehead. Proper attire Wearing the correct bike-riding clothing will keep your youngster safe.
Always dress them brightly during bike rides. This increases their road visibility. Do not wear loose garments that might get caught in the bike chain or other components. Long sleeves prevent riders from road rash if they fall from their bikes. Always ensure your youngster wears adequate bicycle shoes. Closed shoes prevent toe loss and damage in children. Avoid flip-flops and heels while biking.
Also, choose a bike that fits your child’s size, riding style, and ability level. Avoid giving your youngster a larger bike to grow into. Make sure your kid can sit with their feet on the ground when choosing a size.
Also, bike handlebars shouldn’t exceed shoulder level.
Safety checks: Check safety before letting your youngster ride a bike. Safeguards include inspecting wheels and handlebars for proper adjustment and damage. Fix brakes, chains, deflated tires, and loose pieces. Checking and fixing the bike will help avoid accidents.
Supervision Child bike riding requires supervision. Before biking, provide your child the necessary gear and instructions. For those over 10, make sure they follow traffic laws and important roadways. Set riding distance and location constraints. Your child should respect other drivers and be aware outside.
(Surjit Singh Flora is a veteran journalist and freelance writer based in Brampton Canada)
