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An accurate look at bicycle injury statistics may be difficult to obtain, as many police departments do not write reports for bicycling injuries, even in cases of car and bicycle accidents. Many cyclists claim to have called and reported hit and runs and bicycle accident injuries, but say that the police never follow through with an investigation. Because of law enforcement’s failure to report, many experts hypothesize that the bicycle injury statistics that they have collected do not accurately represent the number of injuries that occur.
Bicycle head injuries account for the most serious trauma in bicycle accident deaths. Helmet use is the best way to prevent injuries from becoming fatalities. Over the past few years, only 17% of cyclists that were fatally injured wore a helmet at the time of their accident. As more states implement helmet laws for minors who ride bicycles, the fatality rate of cyclists under 20 years old has declined 84% since 1975. Currently, no states have laws requiring adults to wear helmets while on a bicycle.
While bicycle safety should be a priority for anyone who intends to use a bicycle, there are certain demographics that are at higher risk of injury or death. In 2012, the average age of cyclists killed in car and bike accidents was 43, and 88% of cycling fatalities were men. Blood alcohol content was a factor in 24% of cycling deaths.
Bicycle injury statistics may make it seem like riding a bicycle is one of the most dangerous things a person can do, especially taking into account the injuries that were never reported. There are many ways a cyclist can prevent injury-causing accidents, however. Obeying traffic laws such as riding with traffic and staying off the sidewalks will help drivers know what to expect from a bicycle. Adding lights and reflectors to bicycle and clothing will keep cyclists more visible both day and night. Lastly, wearing a helmet is the best way to ensure that if a crash does happen, the cyclist’s brain is safe. See this link for more references.
