Kohl's Bicycle Safety Program

Bike riding provides endless hours of enjoyment and great exercise for children, but many may not understand the potential dangers that bicycles pose. Without proper instruction and safety precautions, bike riders may be involved in serious cycling accidents.

In the event of an accident, wearing a bike helmet reduces the risk of serious head injuries by 85 percent and severe brain injury by 88 percent; unfortunately, national estimates on helmet usage suggest only 15-25 percent of bicyclists wear a helmet when riding. Universal helmet use by children ages four to 15 would prevent up to 45,000 head injuries and up to 55,000 scalp and face injuries annually.

"The most common serious injury we see from bicycle accidents is head injury," said Dr. Lise Christensen, Pediatric Emergency Medical Physician at East Tennessee Children's Hospital. "Helmet use can prevent almost all of this from happening. But parents need to set the example. No matter where children are riding – whether in the yard or on the street - they need to wear a helmet."

For more information on bicycle safety, call the Children's Hospital Community Relations Department at (865) 541-8165.