When Are Bike Crashes Most Common?
Warm summer days and long daylight hours encourage more people to ride their bikes for commuting, exercise, and leisure. Consequently, bike crashes are most common in the summer months, from June to September. In states with warmer climates like California, bicycle accidents remain high throughout October.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), evenings from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. are particularly hazardous for bicyclists due to reduced visibility and higher traffic volumes. If you sustained injuries in a bicycle accident, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer. Read on to learn about where most bicycle accidents occur and tips to stay safe on the road.
Where Do Most Bicycle Accidents Happen?
Urban Areas
According to recent data, bicycle accidents occur more frequently in urban areas than in rural areas. In 2022, urban areas accounted for 59% of all traffic deaths. Urban streets are particularly dangerous for cyclists due to the high concentration of motor vehicles, pedestrians, and other cyclists sharing the road. Bike lanes located alongside busy roads can also expose cyclists to risks from opening car doors and vehicles making sudden turns. Of 966 pedacyclists killed in motor vehicle accidents in 2021, urban areas accounted for 85% of fatalities (821).
Intersections
Intersections account for a significant proportion of bike crashes. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), about 25% of all traffic fatalities and 50% of all traffic injuries occur at or near intersections. When drivers fail to follow the right-of-way to cyclists, make unsafe lane changes, and fail to check before turning, they can cause bicycle accidents.
In 2022, there were 263 bicyclist fatalities involving an unsignalized intersection. These kinds of intersections are usually controlled by stop signs or yield signs. However, there are also uncontrolled intersections — typically on very low–volume roads in rural or residential areas. In contrast, there were 182 bicycle deaths involving a signalized intersection.
Rural Areas
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), there has been a downtrend in the proportion of motor vehicle deaths in rural areas, from 61% in 2000 to 41% in 2022. However, rural areas have a high rate of fatal bicycle accidents due to higher vehicle speeds, poor lighting, and a lack of designated bicycle lanes. In 2021, 14% of pedalcyclist fatalities occurred in rural areas (140).
Dangerous Intersections in Los Angeles
A report by StreetLight revealed that California is among the top 10 most dangerous states for cyclists. Los Angeles remains one of the deadliest cities in California for cyclists. According to the Los Angeles Times, speeding cars, multi-lane roads, and a lack of dedicated bike lanes create a dangerous environment for bicycle riders.
Here are some of the most dangerous intersections in LA:
- Hollywood Boulevard and Highland Avenue
- Sunset Boulevard and Vine Street
- Santa Monica Boulevard and Wilshire Boulevard
- Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Figueroa Street
- Venice Boulevard and Lincoln Boulevard
- Sepulveda Boulevard and Burbank Boulevard
- Manchester Avenue and Figueroa Street
- Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and Temescal Canyon Road
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in California
Distracted Driving
In 2022, distracted driving claimed the lives of 3,308 people in the US. A negligent driver who is texting, talking on the phone, adjusting their GPS, or engaging in other non-driving activities may not see a cyclist and can cause an accident.
Speeding
Speeding is a leading cause of bicycle accidents, accounting for 29% of traffic accidents. High speeds increase the force of impact in a collision, resulting in more severe injuries for cyclists. In areas with high speed limits, drivers may have difficulty stopping in time if a cyclist suddenly appears in their path, especially in urban areas where cyclists and vehicles frequently share the road.
Disregard for Traffic Laws
When drivers fail to yield the right of way to cyclists, especially at intersections or while making turns, it can result in a serious bicycle accident.
Road Hazards
Road hazards like potholes, debris, uneven surfaces, and poorly maintained bike lanes also contribute to bicycle accidents. Cyclists are more vulnerable to these hazards than motorists because bicycles lack the stability and shock absorption of a car. A sudden encounter with a pothole or debris can cause a cyclist to lose control and crash. Inadequate bike lane maintenance or improper signage is also dangerous as it can force cyclists to veer into traffic lanes, increasing their risk of collision with vehicles.
California Bicycle Accident Statistics
- In 2022, bicycle deaths increased by 10% in the US.
- The majority of fatal bike crashes in California occurred in urban areas, with Los Angeles County, Orange County, and San Joaquin County being the most affected areas.
- In 2021, there were 125 bicyclist fatalities across California.
- According to BikeLA’s 2023 Bicycle Safety Report, Los Angeles still has one of the highest collision death rates nationally.
- In Los Angeles County, 26 cyclists lost their lives in 2022.
Protecting Yourself as a Bicyclist
- Regularly maintain your bike: Ensure that your brakes, tires, and gears are in good working condition to avoid accidents caused by mechanical failure.
- Always wear a helmet: Ensure you wear a properly fitted helmet. Using a bike helmet can reduce the risk of serious head injuries by 60%.
- Use lights and reflective gear: Equip your bike with front and rear lights and wear reflective clothing, especially when riding at dawn, dusk, or night. About 50% of all traffic deaths happen at night. Bike crashes are most common when it’s dawn, dusk, or nighttime.
- Follow traffic laws: Obey all traffic signs and signals, and always ride with the flow of traffic, not against it.
- Stay alert and avoid distractions: Keep both hands on the handlebars and avoid using headphones or any devices that could take your attention away from the road.
- Use hand signals: Communicate your intentions to other road users by using hand signals, especially when turning or changing lanes.
- Choose safer routes: Opt for bike lanes, designated bike paths, or roads with lower speed limits whenever possible.
The Best Cycling Routes in Los Angeles
Some of the safest cycling routes include the following:
Marvin Braude Bike Trail (“The Strand”)
This 22-mile path along the Pacific Coast, from Will Rogers State Beach to Torrance County Beach, offers scenic ocean views.
Griffith Park
This route is ideal for experienced cyclists, as you may have to climb some hills to catch breathtaking views of the city and the Hollywood Sign.
Los Angeles River Bike Path
A dedicated bike lane along the Los Angeles River is perfect for commuters and leisure cyclists.
Ballona Creek Bike Path
This flat, straightforward route running from Culver City to the Pacific Ocean is suitable for beginners and those looking for a relaxed ride.
Award-Winning Bicycle Accident Lawyers in California
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, it’s crucial to seek legal representation. Bicycle injuries can be severe and can result in costly medical bills and pain and suffering. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you hold the responsible party liable.
At Alpha Accident Lawyers, our personal injury lawyers have a proven track record of winning bicycle accident cases in California. We maintain a 99% success rate and have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients.
We offer a free case evaluation to discuss your bicycle accident case and learn more about your legal options. Call for a free consultation today.
