Abstract
The objective of this study is to investigate the circumstances of bicycle accidents and the nature of the injuries sustained, and to determine the effect of safety helmets on the patterns of these injuries. Data were collected on all patients who attended Addenbrooke's Hospital as a result of a bicycle accident from 1st January 1992 to 31 December 1993. In all 1040 patients were analysed, of whom 114 had worn a cycle helmet when the accident occurred. Data are provided for: a) the type of vehicle involved; b) injury sustained, and injury site; c) age of cyclist. The results indicate that head injuries can be significantly reduced if a helmet is worn, especially if the accident involves a motor vehicle.