
When most people think about a road tragedy involving a child, they automatically picture a helpless young victim. However, the most dangerous time for a child to cycle on the roads is between the ages of 11 and 16. Cyclists in this age group are more at risk of being killed or
seriously injured on the roads than any other time in their life. This is because they use their bikes for longer journeys, and are more likely to cycle independently and on busier roads. Modern technology can also increase the risk, as many teenagers like to cycle and listen to music on their iPod. This affects their ability to hear cars and can distract them, leading to fatal mistakes.

The biggest cause of deaths on the road to teenage cyclists is because they were not wearing protective head gear. Many young people consider it 'uncool' to wear a helmet, yet by doing so they reduce the risk of dying on the roads by up to 85%. Parents of teenage children should insist that they wear a helmet when riding their bikes, even when cycling off road. Experts suggest that parents should explain to their teenagers that although being teased is a difficult experience, it is better than dying, or becoming seriously injured because they weren't wearing their helmet.
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