Safety should be the priority

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Following the introduction of 'Boris Bikes' and 'Cycle Super Highways', Lord Greville Janner of Braunstone QC writes for ePolitix.com on the dangers of cycling without a helmet

The key to the question that I am asking the House, on October 21, is the issue of vulnerable cyclists on our roads – a concern I first raised in 2006. In 1983, whilst Member of Parliament for Leicester West, I helped ensure that the wearing of seatbelts became compulsory for drivers and front seat passengers ­– and then in 1991 for back seat passengers. Now, drivers and passengers on motorcycles have to wear helmets – but sadly, cyclists are exempt from such safety precautions.

Most drivers, like myself, are careful, courteous and respectful to all other vehicles on our roads, including bicycle riders. But mistakes can and have often happened. Cycle users without helmets are at a greater risk of suffering dangerous injuries.

In 2003, the Department for Transport reported on the effectiveness of the use of bicycle helmets. It produced evidence that use of a helmet, by all ages, is a practical way of reducing serious injury – especially amongst children and young people. This report also suggested that legislation, with supporting educational activities, has been an effective means of increasing helmet usage in other countries. So why not in ours?

Safety should be the priority. Our new government, as with our last, wishes to encourage people to leave their cars at home, and take to the streets on bikes. This is clear, with the introduction of 'Cycle Super Highways', and by my friend, Mayor of London, Boris Johnson's cycle hire scheme, or 'Boris Bikes' as they are often referred to in our press.

There should now be new legislation, regarding bicycle helmets and safety – because, just as in the 1990s, it was clear that seatbelts would help reduce serious injuries to passengers. The wearing of a helmet would save many lives. And it would often prevent very serious head injuries that can cause long term damage, both physically and mentally.

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