Cycling on US Roads Has Suddenly Become Far More Dangerous

It’s the nightmare scenario for dedicated cyclists: You’re out on the road enjoying a beautiful ride, and suddenly a vehicle bears down on you from nowhere. Before you can react, a collision occurs, throwing you from your bike and causing serious injury.

Unfortunately, this nightmare scenario has become all too common on American roads. New data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that 857 people were killed while cycling in 2018, making it the deadliest year in more than three decades.

Why Cycling Fatalities Continue to Rise

One of the most frustrating things about the current dangers to cyclists is that they are occurring during a period of great progress for road safety. Driver and passenger deaths have reached all-time lows according to federal crash data.

So why are cyclists at greater risk than ever while the general trend is moving in the other direction?

Outside Magazine speculates that rising speed limits, increased driver distraction and Americans spending more time behind the wheel as likely reasons for the disparity. Additionally, it is likely that the production of safer automobiles and an increase of cyclists on American roads has also helped create this gap.

In addition to wearing all necessary safety gear and practicing smart situational awareness, cyclists should also be cognizant of a few accident trends. First, the number of cycling accidents peaks between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., when visibility begins to fade but traffic is still relatively heavy. Urban areas are also much more dangerous than rural areas, accounting for three-fourths of all deaths.

Finally, alcohol is listed as a contributing factor in nearly 40% of all cycling deaths.

The Right Cycling Injury Attorney for You

Gary Brustin is not only an experienced attorney, he is also a lifelong cyclist. This gives him the perspective needed to handle even the most complex bicycle accident injury cases. In fact, Gary does not accept any other type of case. He specializes entirely in bicycle litigation.

If you’ve been involved in a cycling accident, we urge you to contact Gary Brustin Law for a complimentary consultation.