Bicycle helmets proven safety tool for riders

CHICAGO, Ill. (WPVI) -- Before you get on that bicycle, you should put on a helmet.

You know that, right?

Want proof?

Buckle up that bike helmet.

Although it's what millions of bicycle riders do before every trip, you might be interested in proof it really makes a difference.

At the University of Arizona, researchers looked at more than 6,000 patients with injuries from bike accidents.

Those wearing helmets had 58% lower odds of a severe injury, and a reduced risk of dying from their injuries.

So the helmets didn't just reduce the number of injuries, but the severity of those which did occur.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fewer than half of American bicycle riders actually wear helmets.

When it comes to riding a bike, use your head - by protecting it with a helmet.