Most frequent accidents suffered by cyclists

Cycling is an activity that combines sport, leisure and transport, offering numerous health and environment benefits. However, the exhibition on public roads also entails risks. Knowing the most common accidents and how to prevent them is essential for any cyclist. In this article, we will explore the most frequent types of accidents suffered by cyclists and provide you with practical advice to keep you safe on the road.

Introduction to accidents in cycling

Cycling, either as sport or means of transport, has gained popularity worldwide. As more people choose the bicycle to move, it also increases the need to raise awareness about road safety. Cyclists are among the most vulnerable users of the road, since they lack the protection offered by motor vehicles.

This makes accidents involving bicycles particularly dangerous. According to studies, a high percentage of these accidents occurs in urban environments and usually involves collisions with motorized vehicles, road outings, or lateral impacts on intersections and roundabouts.

This article focuses on describing the most frequent accidents, its common causes, and the preventive measures that each cyclist should consider to minimize the 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, imprudence of drivers, or human errors. Next, we explore the most frequent types of accidents facing cyclists.

Fronto-lateral impact

DESCRIPTION AND COMMON CAUSES

The frontal-loreal impact occurs when a vehicle hits a cyclist at an angle, usually at intersections or during rotation maneuvers. This type of accident is especially dangerous due to the force of impact, which can launch 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 at the dead angle of a vehicle.
Lane invasion: Vehicles that do not respect the cyclist lane or that turn sharply without noticing their presence.
Driver distraction: Using the mobile or not paying enough attention to the road can lead to a frontal or lateral impact.

Prevention:

Get visible: Wear front and rear lights, in addition to reflective clothes, even during the day.
Keep 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 dead angles.

Side impact at crosses

How do they occur and preventive measures

Cruces and intersections are critical points where cyclists run a high risk of lateral impacts. This type of accident occurs when a vehicle that rotates or crosses does not detect the approximate cyclist, resulting in a lateral collision.

Typical situations include:

Right or left turns: Vehicles revolve without observing whether there are cyclists in their trajectory.
Skip traffic signs: Some drivers do not respect traffic lights or stop signals, endangering cyclists.
Confusion at intersections: Complex or poorly marked crosses increase the risk of collisions.

Prevention:

Communicate your intentions: Use manual signals to indicate that you are going to turn or stop.
Reduce speed: Decrease speed when you approach an intersection, which will give you more time to react.
Strategic location: Place yourself in the center of the lane when you approach a crossing to make sure the drivers see you.

Outlets in roundabouts

RISKS AND SECURITY TIPS

The roundabouts, also known as roundabouts, can be especially dangerous for cyclists. The main difficulty lies in the confusion about the priority of passage, as well as the speed at which vehicles usually enter and leave the roundabout. The abuses in these areas usually occur when drivers do not give way 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 be out of the visual field of drivers, especially in roundabouts with multiple lanes.
Inadequate speeds: Vehicles that enter or leave the roundabout at high speeds have less time to react to the presence of a cyclist.
Ignorance of the norms: Both cyclists and drivers are sometimes not sure who has priority.

Prevention:

Position in the center of the lane: This will make you more visible and less vulnerable to vehicles entering the roundabout.
Make visual contact: Make sure the drivers have seen you before crossing or continuing in the roundabout.
Keep a constant speed: It circulates at a speed that allows you to react quickly, but that is not so slow that the drivers underestimize you.

Road outputs

Contributing factors and how to avoid them

The road outings occur when a cyclist loses control of his bicycle and leaves the road. These accidents are usually caused by a combination of factors such as speeding, road conditions (closed curves, pronounced descents), and external factors such as adverse weather conditions or distractions.

Common factors include:

Speeding: Especially in descents, where speed can increase rapidly without the cyclist noticing it.
Poorly maintained roads: Potholes, loose gravel, or irregular pavement can make the cyclist lose traction and leave the road.
Distractions: Looking at the landscape or adjusting some bicycle component can lead to a momentary control loss.

Prevention:

Speed control: Reduce speed before entering a curve or a pronounced 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 better in adverse conditions.

Tips for accident prevention

In addition to being aware of the most common types of accidents, cyclists must adopt security habits that help them avoid dangerous situations on the road. Here are some essential tips.

Use of security equipment

Security equipment is the first line of defense for any cyclist. A properly adjusted helmet can be the difference between a blow to the head and a serious injury. Other elements such as gloves, protective glasses, and proper clothing also play a crucial role.

Helmet: Always wear a helmet that complies with safety regulations. Make sure it is well adjusted and without visible damage.
Gloves: Protect your hands in case of a fall and improve the handlebar grip.
Adequate clothing: Opt for garments that make you visible and that are designed for cycling, such as mailts with reflectants and culottes with padded.

Visibility and signaling

Being seen is crucial to prevent accidents. Cyclists must do everything possible to be visible to drivers, especially in low light conditions or in areas with a lot of traffic.

Lights: Use front and rear lights at all times, even during the day. Make sure the lights are bright enough to be remote views.
Reflectors: Add reflective elements to your bike and clothes. There are reflective stickers that you can place in the cycling, the helmet or shoes.
Manual signals: Indicate your intentions to turn or stop with clear and visible signals for drivers to anticipate your movements.

Safe route planning

Route planning is a vital part to guarantee a safe trip. Choosing less busy routes, knowing traffic and road conditions, and being prepared for climate changes can help you avoid dangerous situations.

Choose bike lanes gous: Whenever possible, opt for routes that have exclusive lanes for cyclists.
Avoid high traffic roads: Although you can lengthen your trip, choose a route with less vehicles can be much safer.
Check the weather: Adverse climatic conditions can make the road dangerous. If possible, avoid going out on intense rainy days, snow or strong winds.

Conclusion

Cycling security depends largely on prevention. Knowing the most common accidents, using adequate equipment, and following safe practices on the road are essential steps to reduce risks.

In Tuvalum, we are committed to the safety of our cyclists and we 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!