In 2020, the number of cycling deaths happening in the United States is going to be tracked, according to Outside Online. The goal is to make sure that there is good data on how many accidents are happening as well as why they’re taking place.
Biking safely is important, which is why the magazine decided to track all cycling deaths. Looking at statistics, it’s possible to start making plans on how to correct problems, like an area where cyclist fatalities are high, to reduce cycling fatalities in the future.
Between 1990 and 2010, fatalities in cycling crashes dropped 27%, according to statistics. However, when you look at the time between 2010 and 2018, you’ll see that they then increased by 38%, with around 857 people dying from bike crashes each year.
The reality is that improved helmet use and better biking infrastructure hasn’t done much to reduce the fatalities taking place. Of course, with a greater population and higher number of people riding bikes, it makes sense that fatalities may not decrease. The new study will look into that, studying statistics to see if the higher number of deaths is actually just linked to more people riding.
As a cyclist, you want to know that you’re going to be safe wherever you’re riding. You take care to follow the rules of the road and to avoid heavy traffic. Still, there is no accounting for every hazard. It’s important that data is studied, so that real changes that have an impact can be made.
It’s possible that policies need to be changed. Looking at some of the past accidents, you’ll note that the fiancé of the features editor for Outside was hit and suffered serious injuries in Colorado. Another writer for the magazine was killed in 2018 when he was struck while fixing a flat tire on his bicycle.
It’s likely that there will need to be real changes made before the total number of injuries and fatalities will drop. Some states are doing well with Vision Zero programs, and others have started building bike paths and separated areas to ride. There is still a long way to go.
You should know that if you are struck by a driver who didn’t see you or who encroached on your space, then it’s important to hold them accountable. Accountability is just one way to reduce collisions, since people will be more aware of the potential for penalties.