As cycling becomes increasingly popular and accessible across the North East, emergency services are raising concerns about the lack of helmet use among cyclists and scooter riders. Despite improvements to the region’s cycling infrastructure, incidents involving two-wheeled vehicles are on the rise, prompting calls for greater safety precautions.

Alun Ross of the North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) highlighted that July alone saw over 300 reported accidents involving bikes or scooters. Many of these vehicles, especially those with electric motors, can reach speeds that increase the risk of serious injury in the event of a crash. Ross emphasized the vulnerability of riders without helmets, noting that even low-speed accidents can result in falls where a person’s head strikes the ground or fixed objects like curbs and lamp posts. “A helmet gives you that little bit of protection,” he said, underlining the importance of wearing one consistently.

A simulation exercise at the NEAS Education Centre in Gateshead demonstrated the potential severity of head injuries when a cyclist is not helmeted during a collision. The immersive setup illustrated the emergency response to injuries that might otherwise be mitigated by helmet use. The vivid imagery left a strong impression on participants, serving as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of riding without protective gear.

Local experiences echo these concerns. Charlene Storey spoke about her son Logan, who was injured earlier this year in a crash on Station Road, Prudhoe, where he sustained a broken leg. Storey stressed that Logan’s use of a helmet likely prevented a more serious head injury. “My message is just for others to wear a helmet. It’s going to keep you safe,” she said. The family considers themselves fortunate that the injury was not more severe.

While cycling advocates agree that safer road environments need continued development, the consensus among emergency responders and some members of the public is clear: wearing a helmet is a simple yet effective step to reduce injury risk. Authorities warn against complacency, noting that overconfidence or assuming low speeds equate to minimal risk can be dangerous. With some motorists reportedly less considerate toward cyclists, added personal protection is seen as crucial.

As cycling remains a favored mode of transport across the region, the call to make helmet use standard practice grows louder. Emergency teams and safety advocates urge all riders, regardless of age or experience, to adopt helmets as a routine part of their cycling gear to help mitigate the impact of accidents on the region’s roads.