Bus says wearing helmet saved life

on their way to work, raced to his aid while others called 999. Gerry, who has two children and lives in Horfield, was then taken to Southmead Hospital where he underwent a CT scan.

Gerry said: “The paramedic crews said that if I had not been wearing my helmet my head would have taken the full impact and I would have undoubtedly smashed my skull. The fact I’m on blood thinners also made it more dangerous. I could’ve died.”

Gerry was checked over by medics and discharged. He escaped with bumps and bruises.

The Year 5 teacher, who cycles to work three times a week, is now using his experience to urge others to wear a helmet while cycling.

He has shown the pictures taken at the scene – including the smashed windscreen of the bus – to his class in a bid to drive home the safety message. He also plans to talk to other classes to highlight the importance of being safe while out on a bike. He said: “What happened to me proves what a vital piece of safety equipment a helmet is.

“If sharing my story means that one more person wears a helmet on their bike some good will come out of it. It may save someone’s life later down the line.”

There is no law which compels cyclists of any age to wear a helmet. However, the Highway Code suggests all cyclists wear a safe and well-fitting helmet.

The smashed bus windscreen

If I had not been wearing my helmet my head would have taken the full impact and I would have undoubtedly smashed my skull