Spring is just around the corner, which means that it’s almost time for children throughout Oklahoma City to hit the road on their bicycles once again. If your kids are like most other kids, chances are good that they’ve grown over the winter. Making sure helmets and bicycles fit them properly is one way to improve their safety when they pedal out once again.
Get your kids and their bicycles ready for riding fun by doing these activities with your kids. You’ll also help them learn to take care of their own equipment and to understand why bicycle safety matters.
- Helmet check. Have your children looked carefully at their bicycle helmets. Are there any cracks, chips, or dents? Are the pads inside still firmly attached? Is the strap in good shape, or are there cuts or fraying? Does the helmet fit snugly?
- Bicycle size check. Here’s a fun way for kids to see how much they’ve grown since fall: Have the child stand over his or her bicycle. The top bar should be about 2 to 3 inches below the child’s body, and the child should be able to extend the leg until there is only a slight bend at the knee when he or she sits on the seat. Chances are, your child has grown, and the seat and handlebars need to be adjusted accordingly.
- Systems check. Here’s a fun way to teach your child how bicycles work while also getting them ready for safe riding: Check the tires and let your child help inflate them if needed. Check the brakes and chain, and examine the reflectors to make sure they’re sturdy and in the right places.
If your child gets in a bicycle accident due to the negligence of another party, contact Maples, Nix & Diesselhorst for immediate legal assistance. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills and other damages.
