A recent study of over 64,000 cyclists worldwide found that wearing a bicycle helmet reduces the risk of a head injury by 70% and the risk of a fatal head injury by 65%. Despite these lifesaving statistics, counterfeit helmets are flooding the market, putting riders at serious risk. Riders who suffer traumatic brain injuries in bicycle accidents often require the help of a skilled Los Angeles bicycle accident attorney to pursue compensation for their injuries.
California Bicycle Helmet Laws
Under California Vehicle Code §21212, all bicyclists under 18 must wear a helmet when riding a bicycle, non-motorized scooter, skateboard, or in-line skates on public roads, bikeways, or trails.
To be legal, helmets must meet the safety standards of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). Helmets for sale should have a label certifying compliance with these standards.
The Danger of Counterfeit Helmets
Fake or counterfeit helmets are a growing danger. Unlike authentic helmets, they fail to meet CPSC and ASTM safety standards, meaning they provide little to no protection in a crash.
In one test conducted by Specialized Bicycles:
- The authentic helmet passed all three safety tests, staying in place and protecting the rider.
- The counterfeit helmet failed every test and broke apart in the final crash simulation.
In a real accident, a fake helmet can lead to catastrophic injuries, including permanent brain damage or even death.
How to Spot a Fake Helmet
While counterfeit helmets often look similar to authentic ones, they tend to:
- Weigh less and feel flimsy
- Contain little or no interior padding
- Lack reinforced roll cages
- Use cheap plastic materials
- Have misleading stickers claiming compliance with non-U.S. standards
Although fake helmets are cheaper, the cost of wearing one can be devastating.
Bicycle Accident Risks in California
According to the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), bicycle accident deaths in California rose by 8.1% in just one year. Riders without proper helmets face an even higher risk of severe injury or death. To protect yourself, always ensure your helmet carries a certified CPSC label.
How Hillstone Law Can Help After a Bicycle Accident
A bicycle crash can change your life in an instant, especially if you suffer a traumatic brain injury. At Hillstone Law, our experienced Los Angeles bicycle accident attorneys are here to:
- Handle insurance claims on your behalf
- Investigate the cause of your accident
- Identify all liable parties, including negligent drivers or manufacturers
- Fight for full compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering
Don’t risk your future. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, contact Hillstone Law today for a free consultation. We’ll protect your rights while you focus on recovery.
Note: These blog posts are created solely for the use of Hillstone Law. The information is gathered from internet research, various public sources, and artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT. While we aim to share helpful and educational content, we do not independently verify every detail, and some information may be outdated or subject to change. If you believe that any part of a post is inaccurate or subject to copyright, please contact Hillstone Law right away so we can review it and make any necessary corrections or remove the post. You may also submit a request for correction or takedown HERE.
Disclaimer: The material provided in these blogs is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Our intent is to share knowledge, raise awareness, and provide helpful resources to the public. The photos used in these posts are for illustrative purposes only and are not representative of any actual incident or individuals. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, please contact Hillstone Law at (855) 691-1691. Our attorneys are available to answer your legal questions and help you understand your rights.
