Some progress on helmet safety as parents continue fight

Nambour couple Bob and Lorraine Roberts are encouraged that their campaign for enhanced bicycle helmet safety standards is gaining traction, with the NSW Government taking notice of their concerns. 

Their son, James, tragically died from a head injury despite wearing a safety helmet, prompting Bob and Lorraine to advocate for stricter safety measures.

The couple has been collaborating with the NSW Coroner and the NSW Department of Transport, which has now taken formal action to address helmet safety issues. 

Melvin Eveleigh, Director of Safe Systems and Programs, Transport Safety, Environment, and Regulation, announced that Transport for NSW is moving forward with measures to ensure helmet effectiveness. 

This development was reported by NSW Channel 10 News on July 3. Please watch that Channel 10 news 5:30 evening broadcast to see what the NSW Minister said, and to fully understand the importance of this message. 

Bob and Lorraine emphasize the need for nationwide attention to helmet safety, particularly with the rise of e-bikes and skateboards and the increasing volume of road traffic. 

They stress that not only the fatalities but also the ongoing trauma, grief, and medical costs associated with serious injuries from bicycle accidents, need to be addressed.

“We have seen several cyclists riding without a helmet recently, which is concerning, especially with schools starting up,” Lorraine said. 

The couple believe a timely warning could help reduce the number of injuries and fatalities. They propose that all helmets meet stringent safety standards, suggest that a ranking system is inadequate and call for legislation ensuring that all helmets provide maximum protection.

Bob and Lorraine hope their advocacy will lead to significant improvements in helmet safety standards, preventing other families from experiencing similar tragedies and lost that they are still suffering from.

For more details, they encourage the community to engage with this important safety issue and support initiatives for safer cycling conditions and also the consideration for other safety helmet users.

James Roberts died in a cycling accident, despite wearing a helmet.