Along my commute some illuminated traffic information panels have started displaying road safety messages, including "Cycle Helmets Save Lives".
I complained about the accuracy of the message and received a response from the Highways Manager - Calderdale Council have agreed to withdraw the slogan
Of course I am now kicking myself for not suggesting other messages that promote driver education, but it is excellent they have taken the time to review the complaint and evidence and act on the conclusion.
Thank you for your e-mail in connection with the above
The essence of your complaint seems to be that the message ‘Cycle Helmets Save Lives’ is not supported by conclusive evidence and as such should not be displayed to the general public as a statement of fact.
I have reviewed the information you have provided and concluded that the message is an oversimplification and potential overstatement of the situation.
Whilst cycle helmets will have actually saved ‘some’ lives, and in that respect the statement is correct, the inference conveyed by the message does perhaps overstate the position in respect of potential fatalities and the inference that lives will regularly be saved solely by the wearing of a helmet.
Although a large percentage of cycling fatalities present themselves with serious head injuries, it seems to be the case that it is seldom stated that those head injuries were in themselves fatal when assessed against the other injuries received by the casualty. In addition, there does not seem to be a reliable body of evidence that assesses the survival rates purely attributed to the wearing of helmets.
I believe that there is sufficient evidence to support a statement to the effect that cycle helmets substantially reduce the risk of serious head injuries and there is a subtle interpretation of the ‘saves lives’ wording which conveys the message that the ‘quality of life’ for both wearer (and possible subsequent carer) is often ‘saved’ by the wearing of a helmet. However, that is probably not what the average reader will infer from the text.
In view of all of the above, we will be withdrawing the message ‘Cycle Helmets Save Lives’
