By law, it is mandatory for every cyclist under the age of 18 to wear a helmet, while those who are under 16 need to have a parent or guardian make sure they are wearing them. Helmets have been proven to greatly reduce the risk of brain and head injuries, preventing concussions and potentially even death. Studies have shown that helmet use reduces head injury risk by over 80%.
The Ontario Ministry of Health reports that between 2006-2010, 93.75% of cyclists under the age of 18 who were killed in cycling collisions were not wearing a helmet.
Since its inception in 2002, participants in the Ontario Trial Lawyers Association Helmets on Kids Campaign have donated over 30,000 bicycle helmets. In the coming months, Helmets on Kids will be visiting over 30 communities across the province. The campaign is expected to distribute over 3,500 helmets this year.
On April 1, Jewell Radimisis Jorge LL.P., Rage Against the Disease and Access Rehab proudly sponsored the first event of the OTLA Helmets on Kids 2016 campaign. Their event was successfully held at St. Matthew’s Catholic School in Toronto. Covered by CTV News and CIRV Radio, nearly 300 elementary school students were each given brand new bike helmets.
Watch CTV coverage of the event online
Two members of the Rage Against the Disease bike team revealed the surprise gifts to the excited students, while 15 Toronto Police Service volunteers instructed everyone on how to find the perfect fit for their new helmet.
“Our initiative is to promote safety and prevent injury within the community. Every time we help one child we are making a difference, hopefully they will go and promote the message to their families and friends in the community.”
Michelle Jorge, Partner, Jewell Radimisis Jorge LL.P.
OTLA and the Toronto personal injury lawyers at Jewell Radimisis Jorge appreciate the assistance of PC Peter De Quintal, Unit Commander Scott Weidmark, Staff Sergeant Hildred, Inspector Stroble, and the rest of the Toronto Police Service members. Additionally, we would like to extend gratitude to MPP Cristina Martins and her constituents, plus all of the community partners who were involved with making this year’s event an amazing achievement in promoting cycling safety.
The Helmets on Kids campaign goal is to provide a bike helmet for every Ontario child in need. It is only with the support of OTLA members and their local community partners that we can hope to accomplish this mandate.
For more information, contact Will Campbell <wcampbell@otla.com>
