Bike Child-Passenger Safety Tips

A young passenger on an adult's bike makes the bike unstable and increases braking time. A mishap at any speed, even during casual rides, can cause significant injury to the child.

Following these guidelines decreases the risk, but keep in mind that it does not eliminate the risk of injury. Always use extra caution when biking with a young passenger.

1. Preferably, children should ride in a bicycle-towed child trailer.
2. Only adult cyclists should carry young passengers.
3. Preferably ride with passengers in parks, on bike paths or on quiet streets. Avoid busy thoroughfares and bad weather, and ride with maximum caution and at a reduced speed.
4. Infants younger than 12 months are too young to sit in a rear bike seat and too young to wear a helmet. They should not be carried on a bicycle. Do not carry infants in backpacks or frontpacks on a bike.
5. Children who are old enough (12 months to 4 years) to sit well unsupported and whose necks are strong enough to support a lightweight helmet may be carried in a child-trailer or rear-mounted seat.
6. A rear-mounted bicycle passenger seat must
   • Be securely attached over the rear wheel
   • Have spoke guards to prevent feet and hands from being caught in the wheels
   • Have a high back and a sturdy shoulder harness and lap belt that will support a sleeping child
7. A lightweight infant bike helmet should always be worn by a young passenger to prevent or minimize head injury. Small styrofoam helmets that meet Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards are available.
8. The child must be strapped into the bike seat with a sturdy harness.
9. Remember that the risk of serious injury still exists when you carry a young child on your bicycle.