Do children on motorcycles need special crash helmets?

Abstract

The motorcycle is the most common mode of transport in Malaysia. It is also used to transport children to and from school, and as a general mode of transport. Most fatalities among motorcyclists in Malaysia are due to head injuries and the use of crash helmets has reduced this outcome. This is a preliminary report on the need for special crash helmets for children in Malaysia. Data show that the use of non-specialised helmets for children (who frequently use play helmets or adult type helmets) has no significant difference in injury outcome when compared to adults, in whom the wearing of helmets influence outcome. This suggests that there is a need for special crash helmets for children.