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Fighting a helmet fine in the Victorian courts
Abstract In March 2013, Alan Todd, a steadfast advocate for Freestyle Cyclists, boldly took on the challenge of contesting a helmet fine in the Australian state of Victoria. His unwavering commitment to this cause led to a surprising outcome – he was granted a good behavior bond. The following account presents his firsthand perspective on…
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Challenging a helmet fine through the courts
Abstract The defense of necessity provides a legal avenue for individuals to bypass certain laws when doing so is crucial to prevent even graver consequences. The evidence suggests that bicycle helmets, in some cases, heighten the risk of accidents and can lead to brain injuries. To avert such dire consequences, cyclists are empowered to make…
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Are bicycle helmets dangerous?
Abstract blank Helmets protect against minor skull injuries like bruises and lacerations. Helmets: increase the risk of accidents increase the risk of neck injury increase the risk of brain injury Wearing a helmet can make us feel safer. However feeling safe is not the same as being safe Some politicians claim “Helmets save lives“. Is…
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Has the helmet law improved safety?
Abstract After the helmet law, the risk of accidents doubled. The risk of death & serious injury for child cyclists increased by 50%. Wearing a helmet can make us feel safer. However feeling safe is different than being safe blank A noticeable impact of the helmet law has been to reduce cycling. Almost half stopped cycling,…
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When the worst in the world try to lecture the rest
Abstract Despite having one of the worst track record, Australians academics try to lecture the world about cycling safety. This may seem odd. Yet it fits with the Australian government agenda of obfuscating the disappointing results of its controversial bicycle helmet law. This is not about cycling safety. It is about defending government policy. An…
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How to escape bicycle helmet fines in Australia
Nerendra Jeet Singh, a Sikh, went to court in New South Wales (NSW), Australia over a bicycle helmet fine. He escaped the fine, arguing that his identity and religion are of prime importance. In Queensland, Jasdeep Atwal challenged a helmet fine in court. The Sikh community has led Queensland to reform the helmet law to add a religious exemption.…