Our hearts go out to the family of the boy, 7, who was hit by a car while he was riding a bicycle last Saturday afternoon in Newbury Park. As this is being written, the child is in critical condition, unconscious and on a respirator in the intensive care unit of Childrens Hospital Los Angeles.

It's impossible to imagine what his parents and family are going through.

To the boy, his family and friends we extend our utmost concern and prayers.

We also have compassion for the motorist, who was not at fault, according to police.

Bicycle accidents involving motor vehicles seem to be inevitable in Conejo Valley. This is a beautiful area for bicycle riders. Bicycling is a good way to get around without polluting the environment. It keeps riders physically fit. Our climate is almost always perfect for riding a bicycle.

The danger, of course, is when bicycles and cars try to occupy the same space.

When that happens, the car always wins.

No matter how hard mothers and fathers try to nurture and protect their children, nobody can be a guardian angel all of the time.

In this accident, the boy wasn't wearing a helmet, which might have prevented some of the trauma.

Even when parents buy a helmet and tell a child to always wear it, kids will be kids. It takes time to strap on a helmet, and they don't look particularly comfortable.

Safety helmets are, however, required by law in California for anyone who rides on wheels, including bicycles, roller skates and inline skates.

So please remember, if your children ride on wheels, they must have helmets, and, most importantly, they must wear them, even for short rides just around the corner or up the street.