Kids' bike accidents rise in summertime - Pediatric Trauma - according to Todd Maxson, head of the pediatric trauma program at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas - Brief Article

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), August, 2003

Pediatric trauma doctors can always tell when school lets out for the summer. The number of kids on bicycles struck by cars rises sharply. "Children are out more and people drive faster in school zones and crossings during summer," notes Todd Maxson, assistant professor of surgery and head of the pediatric trauma program at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas.

Maxson offers these tips to avoid accidents: Don't ride at dusk, in the dark, or at any other time outdoor lighting is poor; wear brightly colored clothes and helmets--this goes for adult riders, too; and avoid parking lots unless they are empty, because traffic can be unpredictable.

If someone is struck, Maxson says to keep the injured still until rescuers arrive. Only move the victim if he or she is likely to be hit again. Moreover, be calm and reassuring.