Cycling is a popular and environmentally friendly way to get around. Many countries in the world are trying to establish cycling as the main way of transport in their cities. Some European countries such as the Netherlands are already halfway there and the difference is noticeable.
There is less traffic, the air is not as polluted and the health benefits are numerous. It’s the best cardio you can do for yourself. Plus, you’re not as nervous or annoyed when waiting for hours stuck in a traffic jam.
But even cyclists should be aware that accidents are still likely to happen.
Bicycle accidents can range from minor scrapes to serious injuries, and understanding the most common causes is key to staying safe on the road. While some accidents are the result of rider error, others stem from external factors such as vehicle traffic, weather, and infrastructure.
By identifying these risks and taking preventive measures, cyclists can significantly reduce their chances of being involved in a crash.
Let’s take a look and see what causes cycling accidents across the US.
Table of Contents
Inexperienced Cyclists
One of the leading causes of bicycle accidents is rider error. Inexperienced cyclists may misjudge speed, fail to signal properly, or struggle with balance in tricky situations.
On average, there are 1,400 fatalities each year that result from bicycle accidents. And many of these happen due to the rider’s inexperience.
Even seasoned riders can make mistakes when distracted or fatigued. Common errors include sudden stops without signaling, turning without checking for oncoming traffic, or failing to yield at intersections. Education and practice are essential. Cyclists should take time to learn safe riding techniques, understand traffic laws, and become familiar with their routes before venturing into busy areas.
The same way you would drive a car without taking lessons, you also need to learn some basics about riding a bike.
Driver Negligence
Another significant factor is driver negligence. Motorists who fail to notice cyclists, run red lights, make unsafe turns, or drive while distracted pose serious dangers. You see these types of drivers every day unfortunately and their number appears to be increasing.
According to national statistics, a substantial portion of bicycle accidents involve motor vehicles, underscoring the need for drivers to share the road responsibly.
Cyclists can protect themselves by wearing bright or reflective clothing, using lights at night, and making their movements predictable through proper signaling.
They should also avoid rural roads as these roads give drivers the opportunity to drive quite recklessly. For instance, certain remote roads in Montana lack the proper infrastructure such as dedicated bike lanes. This leads drivers to believe that they can go over the speed limit as there is no one in sight. And that’s when they forget to check their blind spots and a cyclist gets injured.
In such a situation, contacting a bicycle accident lawyer is the smartest step you can take to protect yourself after the accident. A professional can help negotiate with insurance companies and guide you through the next steps.
Poor Visibility
Cyclists often face challenges from poor visibility and adverse weather conditions. Rain, fog, and snow reduce traction and obscure vision, making it harder for both cyclists and drivers to see each other.
Cycling is most popular during summer months, which means that many cyclists aren’t that used to driving in adverse weather conditions.
Even clear nights without adequate lighting can be hazardous. Proper gear, including helmets with reflective elements, front and rear lights, and bright clothing, can help mitigate these risks. Riders should also adjust their speed to match the conditions and avoid areas that are particularly slippery or poorly maintained during inclement weather.
Lack of Infrastructure
One of the most significant contributors to bicycle accidents is poor or inadequate infrastructure. Narrow roads, missing bike lanes and insufficient signage can make it difficult for cyclists to ride safely, especially when sharing the road with motor vehicles.
Again, rural and semi-rural areas are particularly vulnerable, where roads often weren’t designed with cyclists in mind.
Apart from the abovementioned Montana, it’s also Indiana, Arizona and Texas that frequently face these challenges, with long stretches of highway, limited shoulder space, and few dedicated cycling paths.
Improving road design, adding protective bike lanes, and maintaining clear signage can significantly reduce the risk of collisions and help cyclists feel safer on the road.
Mechanical failures and equipment issues
Similar to a car failure, your bike can also break down, meaning accidents can also result from mechanical failures. Worn-out brakes or flat tires can cause cyclists to lose control unexpectedly.
Regular bike maintenance is crucial. You should check tire pressure, brakes, and chain condition before each ride. Investing in high-quality equipment and keeping it in good repair can prevent many accidents and improve overall riding confidence.
It’s always best to spend a bit more on a high quality bike and ensure you’re safe on the road.
Distractions and technology
In today’s world, distractions from mobile devices or other technology can impact both cyclists and drivers. Texting, phone calls, or listening to loud music can divert attention and slow reaction times.
Nowadays, the use of mobile phones while driving has become so frequent that it’s become quite normal to see a person driving and using their phone at the same time.
So when you’re out there riding your bike, make sure to keep phones and headphones at a minimum, focusing fully on the road and surroundings. Similarly, drivers should remain vigilant for cyclists, especially in areas where bike traffic is common.
Final Word
Just because they’re not talked about as much, it doesn’t mean bicycle accidents don’t happen. Bicycle accidents are caused by a combination of factors. Whether it’s rider error, driver negligence or inadequate infrastructure, bicycle accidents can be fatal and leave long-term consequences. In order to make the US more bike-friendly, it’s important to understand these risks and implement preventive strategies. That includes wearing protective gear, maintaining bicycles, following traffic rules, and advocating for safer roads.
Awareness, preparation, and proactive measures are essential to ensure that cycling remains a safe and enjoyable activity for people of all ages and abilities.
