The bike helmet and safety vest is mandatory for children

The government's helmet measure aims to educate adults about their responsibility and the risks they face if they do not apply it. A fine of 90 Euros for the child does not wear a bicycle helmet and a safety vest.

As of March 22, 2017, children under 12 years old will be required to wear a helmet when riding a bike. This decree published in the Official Journal of December 22, is aimed at both young drivers and young passengers riding on the bike of an adult. In case of non-compliance, the parents or the person responsible for the child will be liable to a fourth class fine of 90 Euros.

A measure is that part of road safety and aims to promote good habits from an early age. The government website provides figures that are unquestionable: "The helmet reduces the risk of serious head injury by 70%, the risk of minor injury by 31% and the risk of facial injury by 28%". It also highlights the high vulnerability of the youngest (children under 6 years): "Wearing a helmet drastically reduces the risk of loss of consciousness: at more than 10 km / h, it drops from 98% in the case of a 0.1% non-helmeted head for a helmeted head ".

The bicycle helmet must bear the CE mark

As regards the helmet, it must meet an important criterion: it must be homologated and bear the CE mark. It must have three distinct layers: a cap (outer part), padding located under the cap to absorb the impact of impact and padding comfort. It must also offer good visibility and allow the wearing of glasses.

There are other equipment requirements. The bicycle must be equipped with a horn, front and rear brakes, a reflective tape on the pedals and lights at both ends. In case of night traffic, the cyclist must wear a self-reflective vest. In addition, the government site emphasizes the role of parents who "through example" teach their children to equip themselves. "It has been found that parents of children with helmets are inclined to wear one already."