Do babies have to wear a helmet while in bike trailers?

Question

I have a 15 month old son, and I would love to take him out ridding.

But I am unsure if I need to have him wear a helmet. I have looked in stores and have found none even near small enough...

The trailer has a cage around it, and it straps in with a 5 point harness, but I dont want to take him out without knowing.

Answer 1

yes most laws inforce it too

Answer 2

Of course he needs a helmet! What are you ON?!

Answer 3

Yes, obviously.

Answer 4

Regardless of whether or not the law requires it, you should have him wear a helmet. It will protect him and get him in the habit of wearing a helmet for when he gets old enough to ride on his own.

The reason why you haven't found one that fits is because it's not recommended that children that young be on bikes or in trailers. (and don't buy one that's big and have him "grow into it") A child that young can't take the pounding that the bumps on the road cause. You may not feel it as much, but he will. He could suffer injuries similar to "shaken baby syndrome".   Is he talking yet? If not, all he can do is cry if there's a problem, and by then, it may be too late.  

Also check with your local laws. Many states require cyclists and passengers to be at least 2 years old.

I know this isn't the answer you wanted to hear, but the safety and well-being of your child is your first priority.

Answer 5

everyone should wear a helmet! I speak as someone who is alive today because I was wearing a helmet in a crash that actually ried said lid off my head! two years later, my bestfriend spent a week in a coma before he died because he didnt have a helmet on in a similar accident!

Answer 6

It's because their little neck muscles aren't strong enough to support the added weight and inertia of a helmet on their heads!!!!  

I'd wait until he's older...if something goes wrong and you wreck or lay the bike over suddenly, he could be really injured even if he's strapped in.  The only way I'd consider trying it is if you can fit a car seat in there that provides firm support for his head.  What I'd really consider most is just waiting until next spring when he's grown a bit stronger.