A helmet, when fitted correctly, can reduce the risk of head/brain injury by up to 85 per cent. A helmet not worn correctly does not provide enough protection.
By law, you must wear an approved bicycle helmet while cycling in NSW. Approved helmets are marked with an Australian Standard Approved Notification (either red or black).
There are three types of helmets:
Soft shell – a foam shell with a fabric cover.
Micro shell – a foam shell with a thin plastic cover.
Hard shell – a foam shell with a thicker plastic cover.
The hard shell is better for children as the helmet can take more rough treatment than the other types.
Fitting your helmet:
The helmet should fit comfortably and securely on the head when the straps are fastened.
The straps should not be twisted and should not cover the ears. When done up correctly, the straps should provide a snug fit over the ears and under the chin.
Make sure the helmet isn’t too heavy for young children (they might have to wear it for a few hours).
Choose a bright coloured helmet so other road users can see you.
Replace your helmet if:
It’s been dropped onto a hard surface or involved in an accident.
You see any cracks in the foam.
The straps look worn or freyed.
If you are cycling with a passenger on a tandem, tag-along or bicycle trailer, your passenger must also wear an approved bicycle helmet.
Clothing
To make it easier for other road users to see you, wear bright clothing during the day and reflective clothing at night. If you have no reflective gear for night riding, a plain white t-shirt is the next best thing.
Lights and reflectors
When you ride at night, there must be a white light on the front of the bike and a red light and red reflector at the back of the bike.
Both the lights and the reflector should be clearly visible to other road users.
Horns and bells
Bicycles in NSW must be fitted with a working horn or bell to help sound a warning to other cyclists or pedestrians.
Brakes
Your bike must also be fitted with at least one working brake.
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