This is actually filed as commentary, not news. (Note "Commentary" in red letters above the article).
And, although the article is a bit dramatic, It does make the point that helmets do save lives.

From the American Academy of Pediatrics...
Bicycling remains one of the most popular recreational sports among children in America and is the leading cause of recreational sports injuries treated in emergency departments. An estimated 23 000 children younger than 21 years sustained head injuries (excluding the face) while bicycling in 1998. The bicycle helmet is a very effective device that can prevent the occurrence of up to 88% of serious brain injuries

http://aappolicy.aappublications.org...ics;108/4/1030