Cyclists fatalities, is this normal?

Triathlon Forum
1

Ive heard or read about 3 cyclists fatalities within the last couple of weeks. Is this normal?

2

Normal, but not OK. Problem is that when a 4000 pound SUV and an 18 pound bicycle try to simiultaneously occupy the same bit of road, the cyclist gets severely f-ed up and the SUV driver just needs to detail the bumber.

We have the same rights of way as motor vehicles, but no leverage for enforcing same.

3

Yes, and no.

There are a lot of bicyclists on the roads this time of year, and lots of cars too.
Is three a lot. It sure sounds like it, until you think about all of the car crash fatalities nobody pays attention to anymore.

4

I see lots of DUI’s, etc riding without helmets on the wrong side of the road or at night without lights.

Ride safe.

5

Yes. Read this:

http://www.bikesportmichigan.com/editorials/0000081.shtml

6

I think it would be great for someone to fund a public service campaign aimed at educating people about sharing the road with cyclists and the dire consequences of driver inattentiveness. It might also be a good way to promote recreational cycling.

7

I agree, there are too many motorist that think bikes belong on the sidewalk.

I wonder if USA Cycling and USAT would team up and help fund an add campaign.

8

www.transalt.org

Another reason why NY is the best.

Although I just heard about a very sad cycling related fatality this morning. A women was killed when dodging an open car door, she lost control of the bike, was unable to unclip and she fell underneath a truck. She wasn’t wearing a helmet, but it probably wouldn’t have made a difference.

9

Here are some encouraging numbers… Bicycle deaths have gone down 38% since 1975 (probably due to helmets)…

http://www.hwysafety.org/safety_facts/fatality_facts/pdfs/bicycles.pdf

If you look at the study, there are certainly ways to lower your risk.

  • Wear a helmet (85% that died weren’t wearing a helmet)

  • Don’t drink and ride (24% did)

  • Don’t ride between 6 and 9 PM (rush hour?)

  • Be careful at intersections (35%)

  • Avoid major roads (61%)