Between 2017 and 2021, the US saw a staggering 127 percent increase in injuries related to micromobility devices, totaling 77,200 cases and resulting in 119 deaths. These statistics are only getting worse. New York alone recorded ten fatalities resulting from cyclist collisions in the first quarter of 2023 — the same number of accidents that occurred throughout 2018.
Evidently, as the e-bike takes to our urban streets, there is a vital need to prioritize rider safety and encourage responsible use. An e-bike subscription platform for last-mile delivery drivers Whizz emphasizes three fundamental safety rules that every urban e-bike rider should follow. By embracing these guidelines, riders can roam their cities in a safe way — both for themselves and those they share the roads with.
If there’s one piece of gear you should never ride without, it’s a good helmet. Not only are they proven to be highly effective in preventing fatalities, but they also reduce the risk of head injury by 69%.
To be certain that your helmet will hold up during an accident, ensure it meets safety benchmarks such as the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) Bicycle Helmet Standards. This certification ensures that it has undergone rigorous testing to provide suitable protection.
Your headgear should be constructed from high-quality materials such as polycarbonate, which offer durability and impact resistance. Additionally, helmets with an expanded polystyrene lining provide excellent shock absorption. Some helmets also offer extended coverage at the back for additional safety, while others incorporate technologies like MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) to reduce rotational forces during angled impacts.
While safety should be your top priority, comfort is important too. Look for a helmet that comfortably fits your head, with adequate ventilation to keep your head cool during long rides. Preferably, it should have adjustable straps, or a dial or retention system at the back that allows you to fine-tune the fit. Not only will a snug fit deter you from removing your helmet to alleviate discomfort, but it will stop it from slipping off at the worst possible time.
Often, new e-bike riders splash out on a dependable bike and battery but overlook the importance of a high-quality helmet. Sure, settling for the cheapest option may save you a few dollars, but is that worth risking your life for?
Understandably, not everybody has the money to invest in high-end gear. To address this, Whizz has taken the initiative to provide free helmets to delivery drivers in New York City as part of its ‘Ride Safe’ campaign. Anyone with an active delivery service account can claim one on Whizz’s website — and protect themselves as they shuttle our orders around the city.
