By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network
In Lakeville, Minnesota, an 11 year old was admitted to a Hennepin County Medical Center for severe head injuries following a Minnesota bicycle accident. The accident was reported by the Pioneer Press. The child was struck by a vehicle during the evening hours. He was not wearing a helmet. The story posted did not contain many details of this Minnesota bicycle accident.
Children should always wear a helmet when riding a bicycle. Helmets can and do help prevent head injuries or help reduce the severity of a head injury. Parents should get children into a habit of wearing helmets at all times – there should be no exception to this rule. A serious personal injury on a bicycle can take place at home in the driveway, on the sidewalk near the home, and on the street near the home. Whether your child is heading out on a short ride or a long ride – a helmet should be worn.
Drivers have a duty to be on the lookout for bicyclists and pedestrians. It is no excuse to negligently hit a bicycle rider just because the bicycle rider is not wearing a helmet. Drive slowly and carefully any time children are on or near the roadway.