Many cycling crashes occur because drivers don’t pay attention to their surroundings as they should. They overlook cyclists in traffic, fail to yield the right of way and make other dangerous decisions.
There is little that cyclists can do to protect themselves from collisions caused by irresponsible and unsafe motorists. However, state lawmakers could potentially reduce the number of crashes involving bicycles.
Investing in improved infrastructure is one way to protect cyclists and make cycling a safer form of transportation. All three of the infrastructure adjustments below could decrease the number of cycling collisions that occur.
1. More bicycle lanes
Bicycle lanes provide a degree of separation between cyclists and vehicles. In some cases, there is a physical barrier in the form of a curb, but many times, what separates the bike lane from the main road is just paint.
While drivers may still cut across bicycle lanes or open their doors into bicycle lanes, being able to share the road with more space between motor vehicles and bicycles can reduce the risk of a crash.
2. Bicycle highways
California is in the process of researching bicycle highways as an alternative to traditional bike lanes. These special roads provide direct routes and completely separate cyclists from motor vehicles.
3. Roundabouts at busy intersections
Intersections are where a large percentage of cycling collisions occur. By replacing lights and stop signs with roundabouts, urban planners could potentially reduce the risk of bicycle-car collisions at intersections.
Sadly, current road infrastructure in most communities makes it easy for negligent drivers to put cyclists at risk. When bicycle crashes occur, cyclists often need help asserting themselves. They may need assistance when negotiating an insurance claim or help preparing for civil litigation.