In a world where road safety for cyclists is never guaranteed, this piece of recent research is quite alarming: in a survey of over 560 participants, 30% viewed cyclists who were wearing helmets as "less than fully human." Peculiarly, the research showed that cyclists simply wearing a hat were viewed as more human than those wearing a full helmet. This carries heavy implications for the dehumanization of cyclists on the road and the prevalence of aggressive behavior towards them by other motorists.
The report also notes that in many countries, cycling infrastructure was lacking or simply not there, leaving cyclists to share the road with four-wheeled motorists and in a position of vulnerability. Previous research has also found that motorists tend to perceive helmet-wearing cyclists as more experienced, thereby giving them less room when overtaking. That said, the idea of foregoing wearing a bike helmet to prioritize safety is certainly ironic—and not advisable, as helmets decrease the risk of head and brain injury by 60% and 58%, respectively. So what should cyclists look for in a bike helmet to avoid a less-than-human perception, and what other safety measures can be undertaken to lower the likelihood of future accidents?
The Design of Bike Helmets
A basic bike helmet contains two protective parts: an outer shell that provides puncture resistance and allows the helmet to slide rather than hit the ground squarely during a moment of impact and an inner foam liner that dissipates the force of impact.
However, a well-designed bike helmet may also sport aerodynamic features and a lightweight design for maximum comfort while riding, all without compromising safety and performance. Models like the Oakley DRT5 come with a brain protection system that reduces rotational motion during impact, which can cause severe brain injuries. The DRT5 and DRT3 Trail models also have sun visors that provide some added glare protection and more closely resemble a hat, which could help bikers be perceived as more human.
Some brands have elected to create designs that specifically mimic hats, like the PROLIDS kids' helmets. They incorporate three brim styles that can be worn forwards or backward—or removed entirely for the traditional bump-cap look. The helmet offers maximum protection and customization with an adjustable brim and fit. As far as helmets can go, there are a few other tips bikers can follow to prioritize their safety.
Staying Safe While Cycling
Cyclists have no control over whether the driver next to them perceives them as more or less human. Thus, they should not put their safety at risk with the assumption that biking without a helmet might improve how other drivers view them. The only viable option is to continue augmenting safety and enhancing accountability in case of any accidents. Many modern bike helmets come with built-in mounts for a light or action camera, which can improve visibility and serve as evidence in case of a mishap on the road. It may help to add reflective materials on a bike helmet, which alerts motorists to your position in darker environments.
It goes without saying that cyclists should avoid biking under the influence of any substance; in a previous post, we discussed a study stating intoxicated cyclists frequently have more severe injuries than other victims. Finally, cyclists should bike as if they are driving a car, which means no weaving in and out of traffic or traversing multiple lanes—all of which are easier to do on two wheels.
While the onus of road safety should not fall squarely on the shoulders of bikers, they remain the most vulnerable, making quality helmets and safety measures very important. The hope is that governments worldwide will recognize the need to protect cyclists and create systems that humanize them and give them a designated and rightful share of the road to bike freely on.
