Thursday, May 23, 2013

News
Bike Safety Improves in Anchorage
Helmets play major role in bicycle safety
By Alexis Fernandez


ANCHORAGE - Every day thousands of Alaskans choose to hop on two wheels for their daily commute.

Many are prepared for the worst and wear a helmet.

Anchorage police say, so far bike vs. car collisions have been down; with more than half the year behind us we've had 43 compared to 77 in 2011.

And police say we've had zero bike deaths, compared to two last year.

They hope the downward trend will continue.

One reason this is happening, bike safety advocates say, is the use of helmets.

Anyone under age 16 is required by law to wear one while riding on streets and trails

According to a national highway traffic safety study, nearly 70 percent of fatal bicycle crashes involve head injuries.

Helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 85 percent.

But most importantly, advocates say it's about awareness so that we can all share the road safely.