Bicycle Accident Statistics

When it comes to bicycle safety, certain people are at a higher risk of injury and death than others. The below statistics and information detail the incidence of death and injury among the general population.

Bike Safety Statistics

• According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, adults make up 88% of cyclist fatalities.
• The CDC reported that men die six times more often on a bike than women.
• The CDC also found that those aged 50-59 have the highest bicycle death rates.
• Bicycle-related deaths peak in the summer, with the most occurring in August, and the least occurring in January.
• The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that in 2019, 78% of bicyclists who died were killed in urban areas.
• Delaware is the most dangerous state for cyclists.

What Causes Bicycle Accidents?

Cyclists and motorists should both be on the lookout for each other on the road so that everyone can share the road safely. By knowing what situations are more likely to lead to accidents, everyone can be more vigilant and hopefully reduce the incidence of biker and car collisions.  

Most collisions between bikes and cars occur when a cyclist is headed straight and a car is turning right onto the same trajectory as the bike. The car makes the turn and collides with the cyclist, or the cyclist will run directly into the car as it turns. 

It’s essential to be aware of this situation as a cyclist. Whenever possible, move further left, slow down in advance, and try to catch the attention of the driver. If you are unsure whether the driver has seen you, wave your arm, and be prepared to maneuver in case you need to act quickly. As the driver of a car, increased awareness of bicyclists in general can help reduce car on bike accidents.

Another collision type that happens often between cars and bikes is when a cyclist is struck by the sudden opening of a door from a parked car. As experienced cyclists may know, riding into a car door at full speed can be a very serious situation that leads to major injuries. Cyclists can avoid this risk by always riding the width of a car door from parked cars. 

Stay Safe Through Location Sharing with Life360

Your family and friends may worry while you are biking. Don’t let them fret over a long trip – sharing your location using Life360 can help keep you, your biking friends, and your family connected. Register for Life360 online today.