National Bike Month

MAY 2001

The Facts

In 1998, 761 bicyclists were killed and an additional 53,000 were injured in traffic crashes.

Bicyclists accounted for 12 percent of all non-motorist traffic fatalities in 1998.

Bicycles remain associated with more childhood injuries than any other consumer product except the automobile.

More than 70 percent of children age five to 15 (27.7 million) ride bicycles.

Children (ages 5-15) represent the largest percentage of bicycle fatalities and injuries. The fatality rate for bicyclists ages five to 15 is nearly double the rate for all bicyclists.

Almost one-third (30%) of bicyclists killed in traffic crashes in 1998 were between five and 15 years old.

Head injury is the leading cause of death in bicycle crashes and is the most important determinant of bicycle-related death and permanent disability.

Turn your calendar to May and start making plans to celebrate National Bike Month and help reduce bicycle-related crashes and injuries. For many people across the country, spring marks a shift in activities from inside to outside; and bicycling is a popular choice. Bicycling is one of the most popular activities in the United States. National Bike Month provides an opportunity for educational programs, bicycle community events, bicycle helmet promotions, and even bicycle rodeos to draw positive attention to bicycling and bicycle safety.

You too can celebrate spring with a bicycle safety event for children in your community and involve as many groups and organizations as possible. Some ideas for events include bicycle helmet fittings, bike safety demonstrations, bike safety checkups, bike rodeos and bike skill’s development workshops. You probably have your own ideas for a community-wide bicycle safety event. If you would like additional ideas and resources there are several organizations that can help you. The League of American Bicyclists produces the National Bike Month Event Organizer’s Kit, an invaluable aid to anyone planning a Bike Month promotion. The Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute, National Safe Kids Campaign and the Consumer Product Safety Commission – just to name a few – are organizations that can assist you in your plans.

Check with your state bicycle and pedestrian coordinator or Governors’ Highway Safety Representative (both listed in the State and Regional Resources Catalog) for additional information, a listing of activities in your area, or help in sponsoring a bike safety event.