Bicycling provides a fun and healthy way to enjoy the outdoors. Unfortunately, this form of transportation exposes riders to various road dangers.
Nearly 1,000 cyclists died in traffic crashes in 2021 in the United States, so all travelers have good reason to take extra care on the roads. Understanding the leading causes of accidents can help cyclists and motorists minimize the odds of a tragic event.
Increased hazards at intersections
Intersections are usually the most dangerous locations on roads for all travelers because the potential for conflict points increases. Statistics often find that most accidents and injuries occur at intersections. Cyclists can experience the worst collisions because they lack the protection of a motor vehicle but move at rapid speeds.
As drivers try to anticipate what cyclists, pedestrians and other motorists will do, they may make a miscalculation. Sometimes drivers try to make a turn quickly or beat a light, cutting off a cyclist in the process and leading to a terrible accident.
Inattentive and inconsiderate motorists
Distracted driving remains a leading cause of crashes. Removing one’s attention from the road for only a moment is all it takes for a driver not to see a cyclist. Since cyclists are less visible than other vehicles, the chances of a collision are greater.
At other times, a driver may see a rider and fail to yield. However, cyclists have the same rights to the road as other vehicles. Motorists should provide sufficient space for bike riders and only pass them when it is safe.
Everyone has a right to enjoy the roads in a safe manner. Awareness of the primary reasons for cycling accidents should encourage the community to remain alert and reduce the odds of harrowing bicycle crashes.