Preventing Head Injury: New Jersey Amends Helmet Law

New Jersey's helmet law for bicyclists and skateboarders is extending its reach. Helmets will be required for anyone under age 17 as of next spring.

Acting Gov. Richard J. Codey on Friday signed legislation that amends a 1992 law that required helmets for children under 14. The law also applies to roller skating.

"It is a proven fact that helmets save lives. Yet 80 percent of New Jersey's high school students do not wear a helmet when riding a bike," Codey said. "One little mistake while biking or skating can lead to a life-altering brain injury and a lifetime of tragedy."

To promote helmet safety, the New Jersey Brain Injury Association has also started another program called the Brainy Brunch Helmet Program.  Police officers are issuing a summons to children found wearing a helmet which entitles them to a free slice of pizza and a soda.  Read more about this head injury prevention program by clicking here.

Read the full story about the amended helmet law and information supplied by the Brain Injury Association of New Jersey by clicking here .