Service NL
April 23, 2015

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Dan Crummell, Minister of Service NL:

Ministerial Statement - Bike Helmet Usage Becomes Mandatory on Public Roadways

Mr. Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House to inform the public that bike helmets are now mandatory on all public roadways in Newfoundland and Labrador. This amendment to the Highway Traffic Act became effective on April 1.

A properly fitted bicycle helmet can decrease the risk of serious head injury by as much as 85 per cent. Working together with safety advocates and law enforcement, we have achieved a new safety standard that will help protect children and families in all communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Safety advocacy groups that worked with us on this initiative included the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association, the Association of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Newfoundland and Labrador Public Health Association, Safety Services Newfoundland and Labrador, the Newfoundland and Labrador Injury Prevention Coalition, the Newfoundland and Labrador Brain Injury Association, and the Department of Seniors, Wellness and Social Development.

Mr. Speaker, I recently had the pleasure of joining safety advocates, police and youth at Boys and Girls Clubs of St. John�s to talk about the new legislation, and demonstrate the proper way to choose a helmet, which involves using the 2V1 approach. The helmet should cover the top of the forehead and rest approximately two fingers width above the eyebrows. The side straps should fit snugly around the ears in a �V� shape, and the chin strap should be buckled and then tightened until one finger can be fit between the strap and chin.

Anyone seeking additional information about the 2V1 approach to fitting a helmet, or other information about the new bicycle helmet law, can visit www.gov.nl.ca/BikeHelmet. This webpage also provides information on how individuals can seek assistance with purchasing a helmet. Those needing assistance with obtaining a bicycle helmet can contact Canadian Tire Jumpstart if the helmet is for a youth under 18, or Recreation NL if the helmet is for someone older than 18.

Mr. Speaker this amendment to the Highway Traffic Act continues the Provincial Government�s commitment to promote healthier and safer communities. I encourage everyone to learn more about the important new requirements, which our government has put in place to protect children and families throughout our province. Thank you.

2015 04 23                             2:00 p.m.