Rise In Child Cycling Accidents Leads To Advice

Charity ROSPA has provided advice on increasing child safety when using a bike, following an increase in child cycling accidents.

We’ve provided the main points of the advice, which comes with a video and a checklist for you to print and use.

It’s important to take as many steps as possible to prevent accidents. The advice from ROSPA can make a notable difference in preventing accidents and injuries.

Nick Lloyd, head of Road Safety said: “We think it’s amazing that so many more people are getting on their bikes, and so many young people may now be starting a lifetime of cycling, with all the health and environmental benefits that will bring, but we need to ensure they are properly protected when riding.”

The advice comes in 5 helpful points:

1. Carry out a regular safety check (tyres at the correct pressure, brakes working and nothing loose like spokes, saddle or handlebars). There’s a helpful video and checklist to help you.
2. Wearing a cycle helmet will help provide protection to the head in the event of a collision or falling off (remember to replace if damaged). Follow the manufacturer’s fitting instructions
3. Make sure you’re not wearing any loose clothing or shoelaces, which could become tangled in the chain or wheels
4. Parents should ride with children to their competence and ability. Get them to demonstrate that they can safely control their bike and deal with other traffic
5. For older children, if they are riding away from home plan the route with them; use cycle tracks and avoid busy roads and junctions if possible.

Unfortunately, accidents can still happen. If your child is involved in an accident and suffers injuries due to someone else fault then a compensation claim should be made.

To learn more or to start your claim, get in touch with our expert team on 0333 358 2345 or contact us online.