Most common accidents suffered by cyclists: Safety guide

Most common accidents suffered by cyclists

Cycling is an activity that combines sport, leisure, and transportation, offering multiple benefits for both health and the environment. Whether you ride with mountain bikes on challenging trails or with road bikes on paved routes, safety should always be a priority. However, exposure on public roads and uneven terrain also carries certain risks.

Knowing the most common accidents and how to prevent them is essential for every cyclist. In this article, we will explore the most frequent types of incidents that affect both those who enjoy speed on road bikes and those who prefer the adrenaline of downhill mountain biking. In addition, we will provide you with practical tips to improve your safety and enjoy cycling with complete confidence.

Accidents in cycling

Cycling, whether as a sport or means of transportation, has gained popularity around the world. As more people choose bicycles to get around, the need to raise awareness about road safety also increases. Cyclists are among the most vulnerable road users, as they lack the protection offered by motor vehicles.

This makes accidents involving bicycles particularly dangerous. According to studies, a high percentage of these accidents occur in urban environments and often involve collisions with motor vehicles, running off the road, or side impacts at intersections and roundabouts.

This article focuses on describing the most frequent accidents, their common causes, and the preventive measures that every cyclist should consider to minimize risks while enjoying cycling.

Main types of accidents

Accidents in cycling can vary in type and severity, but many of them share common factors such as lack of visibility, reckless drivers, or human error. Below, we explore the most frequent types of accidents faced by cyclists.

Frontal-side impact

Description and common causes

The frontal-side impact occurs when a vehicle hits a cyclist at an angle, usually at intersections or during turning maneuvers. This type of accident is especially dangerous due to the force of the impact, which can throw the cyclist to the ground or against another vehicle.

The most common causes include:

• Lack of visibility: This occurs especially in low light conditions or when a cyclist is in a vehicle’s blind spot.
• Lane invasion: Vehicles that do not respect the cyclist's lane or that turn abruptly without warning of their presence.
• Driver distraction: Using a mobile phone or not paying enough attention to the road can lead to a head-on or side impact.

Prevention:

• Make yourself visible: Use front and rear lights, as well as reflective clothing, even during the day.
• Maintain a safe speed: This will allow you to react more quickly to any eventuality.
• Position yourself correctly on the road: Always stay in a place where you are visible to drivers, avoiding blind spots.

Side impact at intersections

How they happen and preventive measures

Crossings and intersections are critical points where cyclists are at high risk of suffering side impacts. This type of accident occurs when a turning or crossing vehicle does not detect the approaching cyclist, resulting in a side collision.

Typical situations include:

• Right or left turns: Vehicles turn without checking if there are cyclists in their path.
• Running traffic signals: Some drivers do not respect traffic lights or stop signs, endangering cyclists.
• Confusion at intersections: Complex or poorly marked crossings increase the risk of collisions.

Prevention:

• Communicate your intentions: Use hand signals to indicate you are going to turn or stop.
• Reduce speed: Slow down when approaching an intersection, which will give you more time to react.
• Strategic positioning: Place yourself in the center of the lane as you approach a crossing to make sure drivers see you.

Collisions in roundabouts

Risks and safety tips

Roundabouts, also known as traffic circles, can be especially dangerous for cyclists. The main difficulty lies in the confusion about right of way, as well as the speed at which vehicles usually enter and exit the roundabout. Collisions in these areas usually occur when drivers do not yield correctly or when they do not see the cyclist who is already circulating inside the roundabout.

The main risks include:

• Lack of visibility : Cyclists can fall outside the drivers' field of vision, especially in roundabouts with multiple lanes.
• Inadequate speeds: Vehicles entering or exiting the roundabout at high speeds have less time to react to the presence of a cyclist.
• Ignorance of the rules: Both cyclists and drivers are sometimes unsure about who has the right of way.

Prevention:

• Position yourself in the center of the lane: This will make you more visible and less vulnerable to vehicles entering the roundabout.
• Make eye contact: Make sure drivers have seen you before crossing or continuing in the roundabout.
• Maintain a steady speed: Ride at a speed that allows you to react quickly, but not so slowly that drivers underestimate you.

Run-off-road incidents

Contributing factors and how to avoid them

Run-off-road incidents occur when a cyclist loses control of their bicycle and leaves the roadway. These accidents are usually caused by a combination of factors such as excessive speed, road conditions (sharp curves, steep descents), and external factors like adverse weather conditions or distractions.

Common factors include:

• Excessive speed: Especially on descents, where speed can increase rapidly without the cyclist noticing.
• Poorly maintained roads: Potholes, loose gravel, or uneven pavement can cause the cyclist to lose traction and leave the road.
• Distractions: Looking at the scenery or adjusting some component of the bicycle can lead to a momentary loss of control.

Prevention:

• Speed control: Reduce speed before entering a curve or a steep descent.
• Constant attention: Keep your eyes on the road and avoid unnecessary distractions.
• Bicycle maintenance: Make sure the brakes and tires are in good condition to handle adverse conditions better.

Tips for accident prevention

In addition to being aware of the most common types of accidents, cyclists should adopt safety habits that help them avoid dangerous situations on the road. Below, we offer some essential tips.

Use of safety equipment

Safety equipment is the first line of defense for any cyclist. A properly fitted helmet can be the difference between a bump on the head and a serious injury. Other items such as gloves, protective glasses, and appropriate clothing also play a crucial role.

• Helmet: Always wear a helmet that meets safety regulations. Make sure it fits well and has no visible damage.
• Gloves: They protect your hands in case of a fall and improve your grip on the handlebars.
• Appropriate clothing: Choose garments that make you visible and are designed for cycling, such as jerseys with reflectors and padded shorts.

Visibility and signaling

Being seen is crucial to prevent accidents. Cyclists should do everything possible to be visible to drivers, especially in low-light conditions or in high-traffic areas.

• Lights: Use front and rear lights at all times, even during the day. Make sure the lights are bright enough to be seen from a distance.
• Reflectors: Add reflective elements to your bike and clothing. There are reflective stickers you can place on the bike frame, helmet, or shoes.
• Hand signals: Indicate your intentions to turn or stop with clear and visible signals so that drivers can anticipate your movements.

Safe route planning

Route planning is a vital part of ensuring a safe ride. Choosing less crowded routes, knowing the traffic and road conditions, and being prepared for changes in weather can help you avoid dangerous situations.

• Choose routes with bike lanes: Whenever possible, opt for routes that have dedicated bike lanes.
• Avoid roads with heavy traffic: Although it may lengthen your trip, choosing a route with fewer vehicles can be much safer.
• Check the weather: Adverse weather conditions can make the road dangerous. If possible, avoid going out on days with heavy rain, snow, or strong winds.

It largely depends on prevention

Knowing the most common accidents, using the right equipment, and following safe practices on the road are essential steps to reduce risks.

At Tuvalum, we are committed to the safety of our cyclists and encourage you to share this knowledge with others, so that we can all enjoy a safer cycling experience.

Remember, prevention is the key to safe cycling!