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- BUSINESS, Page 69Business NotesSPORTS EQUIPMENTPutting a Lid On Cyclists
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- Each year 1,000 Americans die as a result of bicycle
- accidents. In 75% of the deaths, the cause is head trauma.
- Influenced by those statistics, Maryland's Howard County last
- week passed a bill requiring all bicyclists to wear helmets or
- face fines of as much as $100 per violation. The law is
- expected to inspire similar legislation across the U.S. But
- bicycle makers fear that helmet laws could hurt business. The
- Bicycle Manufacturers Association of America contends that the
- price of helmets -- typically $20 to $80 -- may cut into the
- sport's appeal by increasing its cost. The Maryland law was
- written by county councilman Charles Feaga, who was disturbed
- by the deaths of three local children in bicycling accidents.
- Insists Feaga: "We did not do this to harass children or
- adults. It's like passengers wearing seat belts. It's for their
- own good."
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