A group of 72 impacted bicycle helmets were collected, primarily from manufacturers with a crash replacement policy that encourages the return of damaged helmets. Each damaged helmet was thoroughly inspected and measured to determine the construction details and collision damage. Laboratory replication tests were then performed on selected samples using exemplar helmets to determine impact velocity and peak headform acceleration. The predominant impact location was to the front left quarter location and the replication studies indicate that the majority of impacts were to flat surfaces from drop height of 1.0 meter or less. Overall, it is evident that there are a large number of bicycle helmet users who have benefited from the use of a bicycle helmet, and future bicycle helmet standards must consider and incorporate the protective requirements of this unique group. (A)
Samenvatting