You are one ride away from a good mood. – Sarah Bentley
Riding a bicycle offers a fantastic opportunity for physical exercise, sightseeing, and contributing to a healthier planet by reducing carbon emissions. Nevertheless, cyclists must be aware of numerous potential risks. Often, they need to navigate roads alongside cars, and even when cycling on designated paths, there's still a chance of sustaining injuries.
Recently, the number of people who died in bike accidents has increased significantly. In 2020 there were 1,260 deaths, 44% more than in 2011. But the good news is that fewer people are hurt in bike accidents. There were 39% fewer injuries in 2020 compared to 2011. However, there were slightly more injuries in 2020 than in 2019.
Bike accidents happen more often during the warm months, from May to October. In 2020, most of these accidents happened in August, and the fewest happened in February.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Bike accidents can happen for many reasons, often involving cyclists and drivers. Here are some of the most common causes:
Distracted Driving or Riding: This is a significant cause of accidents in general, not just bicycle accidents. Drivers or cyclists distracted by their phones, music, or anything else need to pay more attention to the road, which can lead to accidents.
Dooring: This happens when a driver opens a car door in the path of an oncoming cyclist. It's often due to the driver not checking for cyclists before opening the door.
Right or Left Cross: This is when a car pulls out from a side street, parking lot, or driveway on the right of the cyclist, or a car from the opposite direction turns left in front of the cyclist.
Riding Against Traffic: Cyclists who ride against the flow of traffic can need clarification from drivers, who are surprised to see cyclists coming from that direction.
Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, slippery surfaces due to weather, or lack of proper cycling infrastructure can all lead to accidents.
Speeding: Both drivers and cyclists moving too fast can cause accidents, as they may not have enough time to react to obstacles or other road users.
Impaired Driving or Riding: Alcohol or drug use can seriously impair a person's ability to safely drive or ride a bike.
Not Using Lights at Night: Cyclists who don't use lights when riding at night can be nearly invisible to drivers until it's too late.
Not Wearing a Helmet: While this doesn't cause accidents, not wearing a helmet can make injuries much worse when accidents do happen.
5 Essential Safety Tips for Bike RidersALWAYS WEAR A HELMET.
Wearing a helmet keeps your head safe. Make sure it fits well and keep it near your bike so you remember to wear it.
USE HAND SIGNALS. Learn the hand signals for turning left, right, and stopping. These help drivers know what you're going to do. Always look at the drivers to ensure they see you; never think they will stop without checking.
BE EASY TO SEE. Make sure drivers can see you when you're riding your bike. Use lights at night and wear bright clothes during the day.
DON'T USE HEADPHONES. Listening to music or using your phone while biking can be dangerous, and you might not hear a car horn or someone warning you about something. You can stay focused on what's happening around you.
FOLLOW TRAFFIC RULES. Bike riders should follow the same rules as cars, and many accidents happen because bike riders need to follow the rules, like running red lights or going the wrong way on the street.
Remember, bicyclists have the same rights and duties as drivers of motor vehicles. (NH RSA 265:143) - Bicyclists must stop at stop signs and red lights, yield to pedestrians, and ride with traffic. Before turning right, slow and merge behind a bicyclist ahead of you.
Understanding and respecting each other's rights on the road is essential to prevent accidents and create a safer environment for everyone.