Most people who suffer serious injuries due to bicycle accidents have suffered the accident while cycling in the city. Furthermore, both in the city and on the roads, head injuries are equally common in cases of serious or very serious injuries. For these reasons, it is very important to wear a helmet when cycling in the city, even if it is not mandatory, to protect our heads and reduce the risk of serious injuries.
In Spain, regulations regarding mandatory bicycle helmet use vary depending on age and the specific situation. Therefore, to determine whether bicycle helmet use is mandatory in the city, the primary factor to consider is the age of the person riding the bike.
Until what age is it mandatory to wear a helmet when cycling in the city?
Children under 16 years old
Bicycle helmet use is mandatory on both urban and interurban roads for children under 16 years of age.
Over 16 years old
For adults, helmets are only mandatory on roads outside of cities, unless there are long climbs, extreme heat, or valid medical reasons (with a valid certificate). Therefore, helmet use is not mandatory while cycling in the city itself.
Where is mandatory bicycle helmet use regulated in the city?
The mandatory use of a helmet on a bike in the city is regulated in the Law 18/2021, of December 20, which modifies the consolidated text of the Law on Traffic, Circulation of Motor Vehicles and Road Safety, approved by the Royal Legislative Decree 6/2015, of October 30, regarding driving permits and license points. Specifically, and within this, in Article 47, which specifies that "The driver and, where applicable, the occupants of bicycles and cycles in general shall be required to wear a protective helmet on urban, interurban, and cross-country roads, in accordance with the terms established by regulations. Its use is mandatory for children under sixteen years of age, as well as for those traveling on interurban roads."
Fines for failing to comply with the mandatory use of a bicycle helmet in the city
According to the DGT (Directorate-General for Traffic), children under 16 must wear a helmet when riding bicycles in the city. However, regulations within cities may vary by municipality. Failure to wear a helmet when it is mandatory for children under 16 carries a €200 fine, which must be paid by parents or guardians.
Benefits of wearing an approved helmet when cycling in the city
Wearing a helmet when cycling in the city, apart from using it if it is mandatory in our case, also provides a series of benefits (just like using other helmets). accessories), such as:
Protection against possible accidents
In the event of an unfortunate accident, it provides an additional layer of protection for the head. It helps absorb and disperse impact, reducing the risk of serious injuries to the skull and brain.
Our bicycle locks
Head injury prevention
It is specifically designed to prevent serious head injuries in the event of an accident. It helps minimize the risk of concussions and traumatic brain injuries.
Increased road safety
It promotes a culture of road safety, as by using it, cyclists set an example for other road users and contribute to creating a safer environment for everyone.
Confidence and peace of mind
It provides cyclists with confidence and peace of mind knowing they have adequate protection in the event of an accident. Consequently, its use can increase the feeling of safety when riding in the city, not only in cases where wearing a bike helmet in the city is mandatory.
Compliance with regulations
In some cases, such as the one mentioned in this article, bicycle helmet use is mandatory for children under 16 in the city in Spain. By wearing a helmet, you will comply with these regulations and avoid possible fines.
Conclusion: mandatory helmet use on bikes in the city
In Spain, the use of bicycle helmets is not currently mandatory for adults in the city, but it is for children under 16. Although it is not mandatory, it is always recommended to wear a helmet while cycling in the city as a safety measure. just like riding a bike to work.
