Biking--whether riding for recreation or exercise--is a great way to stay fit. However, it is important to stay safe while riding, or the consequences can be dire. Wearing a helmet is critical in case you should take a bad fall off of your bike.

1. Brain Injuries

   • Out of all bike injuries, one out of eight of them are brain injuries. People who wear bike helmets lower the risk of brain injury by 88 percent.

   Death

   • The decision to put on that bike helmet could mean the difference between life and death. About 75 percent of bicycle-related deaths of children could have been prevented by wearing a bike helmet. Helmets aren't just for kids, though; adults run the same risks.

   Memory Loss

   • A strong blow to the head can cause memory loss, such as amnesia. Rather than suffer through this, it's wise to simply wear a helmet in the first place.

   Law

   • For most people under the age of 18, riding your bike without a helmet is against the law and is punishable by a fine. The regulations vary from state to state.