(Image: NEAS)
A sharp rise in bike-related accidents has prompted a summer safety warning from North East ambulance chiefs, as new figures reveal the highest number of incidents recorded across the June and July data available from the last three years.
The North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) responded to 340 bike-related incidents in July, a 25.5 per cent increase from 271 in July 2025 and a 45.9 per cent jump from 233 in July 2024.
The number marks the highest total recorded during June and July over the past three years.
Alun Ross, HART and resilience manager at NEAS, said: "We've seen a significant rise in bike-related incidents this summer, with July recording 340 incidents across the region.
"Whether you're riding a bicycle, motorbike, or scooter, wearing a properly fitted helmet is one of the simplest ways to reduce the risk of serious injury.
"As children enjoy the summer holidays and prepare to return to school, we're encouraging parents and carers to talk to them about staying safe and making helmet use a habit every time they ride."
With the school summer holidays in full swing, more people of all ages are spending time outdoors cycling, scooting, and travelling on two wheels.
While many incidents are minor, some result in serious injuries requiring emergency care.
NEAS is advising the public to follow safety precautions such as carrying out basic vehicle checks, wearing a correctly fitted helmet, and ensuring riders have the necessary skills and road awareness to stay safe.
The service said these messages apply to all wheeled activities, including cycling, scootering, skateboarding, and using hoverboards or roller skates.
Alongside the rise in bike incidents, NEAS also recorded 133 heat-related incidents in July, underscoring the risks associated with hot weather during the holiday period.
The public is being urged to:
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Wear a properly fitted helmet for all wheeled activities
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Carry out safety checks on tyres, brakes, lights, and handlebars before setting off
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Ensure children understand cycle and road safety
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Stay hydrated and take breaks in warm weather
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Wear high-visibility clothing where appropriate
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Take extra care in busy public areas, especially during the school holidays
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Protective equipment such as helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads is recommended for all children and young people using bikes, scooters, or skateboards.
The campaign is part of NEAS' wider summer safety campaign, which provides practical advice to help people stay safe and avoid preventable accidents during the school holidays and beyond.
For more information on how to stay safe this summer, visit the NEAS website at https://www.neas.nhs.uk/community-learning/summer-safety-advice.