Bozeman Magazine

Unintentional deaths including motor vehicle accidents and head trauma continue to be the number one cause of death for children in Montana and across the United States, according to America's Health Ranking National Report by the United Health Foundation. Notably, children are more likely to take risks that may lead to injury, especially as they are learning to become more independent.

Learning to ride a bike is a milestone of childhood. A milestone that can come with risks. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, an average of 630 children are injured each day in bicycle-related crashes.

In July 2019, the Park County community lost 11-year-old, Cayden James Leonard, when he was struck by a vehicle while riding his bike. The loss of Cayden makes the conversation of bike safety for both children and drivers more important than ever in the Livingston community and throughout Montana.

In Cayden's memory, Cayden’s family, and Child Care Connections along with community partners and sponsors held a bike safety event in July of 2021. This event engaged over 300 children and adults bringing awareness to the importance of bike and vehicle safety, especially when it comes to children.

With free admission, this year’s event will be held July 13^th, 2021 from 4:30 – 7:30 pm during the Livingston Farmers’ Market and offer a variety of fun and educational activities for children and adults. There will be drawings for bikes, free bike helmets and fittings, an obstacle course, and more! Resources and education will also be provided to adults on bike safety for drivers.

For more information on the event or to become involved as a volunteer or sponsor, please visit cccmontana.org/event/bike4cayden2 or contact samantha@cccmontana.org.