Helmet use among cyclists has reached a new high in 2024, with 59% of riders now choosing to wear one, according to a recent report from the Swiss Council for Accident Prevention (BFU). This increase reflects a growing awareness of safety, especially during leisure activities, where helmet use has surged to 64%. The data, collected from traffic surveys across Switzerland, shows that helmet use differs significantly depending on the purpose of the ride.

Helmet Use by Activity Type

Although helmets are more popular during leisure activities, with 64% of riders wearing them, usage drops when cycling for errands or shopping, with only 30% wearing helmets for these trips. This rate of helmet use for shopping trips has remained consistent with last year’s figures.

Helmet Compliance on Electric Bikes

Cyclists on electric bikes have shown particularly high helmet usage, with a noticeable difference between faster and slower e-bikes. On faster e-bikes, capable of reaching speeds up to 45 km/h, 86% of cyclists wear helmets, despite the fact that helmets are legally required for these models. On slower e-bikes, which are limited to speeds of 25 km/h and do not require helmets by law, 70% of riders still opt for head protection.

Room for Improvement in Helmet and Light Use

While the rise in helmet use marks a positive shift, the BFU emphasizes that helmet use on bicycles still lags behind other sports, such as skiing, where helmets are almost universal. The organization highlights the critical role of helmets in reducing the risk of serious head injuries by up to 70%.

Another area needing improvement is the use of lights on e-bikes, which became mandatory in Switzerland in 2022. Even though lights are required to be on during the day, nearly one in three e-bike riders still neglects to turn them on, posing potential safety risks.

Increased Seat Belt Use in Vehicles

Beyond helmet use, the BFU report also shows an increase in seat belt compliance, especially among back-seat passengers. In 2024, seat belt use in the back seat reached a record 92%, up from 85% in the previous year. In the front seats, 96% of drivers and 95% of front-seat passengers adhered to seat belt requirements.

Ongoing Data Collection for Safety Improvements

The BFU conducts annual traffic data collection through standardized sampling across Switzerland, providing insights into safety practices that can guide future awareness campaigns and policy adjustments.

Prioritizing Safety: Essential Measures for Cyclists and E-Bikers

Safety is paramount for activities like cycling and e-biking, where even small oversights can lead to serious consequences. Wearing helmets and using lights on e-bikes, for instance, are simple measures that drastically reduce the risk of life-threatening injuries. Helmets alone can decrease the likelihood of severe head trauma by up to 70%, making them essential for all riders. Beyond personal safety, these precautions contribute to a safer environment for all, as well-lit and well-protected cyclists are more visible and predictable on the road. In an increasingly urbanized world where cyclists share space with cars, pedestrians, and other vehicles, prioritizing safety ensures that everyone can enjoy these activities with peace of mind.