Safe Bicycling Starts Early

A young passenger on an adult's bike makes the bike unstable and increases the braking time. A mishap at any speed easily attained during casual riding could cause significant injury to the child. Following these guidelines decreases, but does not eliminate, the risk of injury.

• Preferably, children should ride in a bicycle-towed child trailer.

• Only adult cyclists should carry young passengers.

• Preferably ride with passengers in parks, on bike paths, or on quiet streets. Avoid busy thoroughfares and bad weather, and ride with caution and at a reduced speed.

• Infants younger than 12 months are too young to sit in a rear bike seat and too young to wear a helmet. They should not be carried on a bicycle. Do not carry infants in backpacks or front packs on a bike.

• Children who are old enough (12 months-4 years) to sit well unsupported and whose necks are strong enough to support a lightweight helmet may be carried in a child-trailer or rear-mounted seat.

• A rear-mounted seat must

  • Be securely attached over the rear wheel.

  • Have spoke guards to prevent feet and hands from being caught in the wheels.

  • Have a high back and a sturdy shoulder harness and lap belt that will support a sleeping child.

• A lightweight infant bike helmet should always be worn by a young passenger to prevent or minimize head injury. Small Styrofoam helmets that meet US Consumer Product Safety Commission standards are available.

• The child must be strapped into the bike seat with a sturdy harness.

• Remember, the risk of serious injury still exists when you carry a young child on your bicycle.