Bike helmet prevented serious injuries after 12-year-old boy hit by vehicle: RCMP

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on October 29, 2025.

Cpl. Hagel of the Brooks RCMP, the responding officer, presents a new helmet to Gavin Watts of Brooks and thanks him for setting a positive example by wearing his helmet and practicing safe riding habits. The youth was recently struck by an SUV while riding his bicycle but staved off serious injuries due to wearing his helmet. -- SUPPLIED PHOTO

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Brooks RCMP say a collision between an SUV and a 12-year-old cyclist could have had a much more serious outcome had the young boy not been wearing his bicycle helmet at the time.

Mounties say the young cyclist was not seriously injured after they responded to a 911 call shortly before 5 p.m. on Oct. 23 after a purple Chevrolet Traverse SUV turning southbound struck the child who was crossing the intersection.

“This collision could have had a very different outcome, but thankfully, the cyclist was not seriously injured and an RCMP officer accredited this to the use and wearing of an approved bicycle helmet,” reads a press release.

Mounties are reminding youth that riding their bikes without helmets remains a concern, and they plan to continue municipal enforcement and working with Primary Care Alberta to continue bike safety education programs through community initiatives such as school bike rodeos.

“Accidents are just that – accidents. No one plans for them, but we can all take steps to reduce their impact. Whether you’re riding across town, to school, or around the block, wearing a helmet every time you ride could save your life,” says Sgt. David Searle.

Mounties also remind motorists to remain alert for cyclists and pedestrians, especially when making turns or approaching intersections.