While cycling surged during the pandemic lockdowns, today’s roads present increased challenges for riders. Traffic volume increased by 1.5% in December 2024 compared to the previous year, with cumulative travel for 2024 up by over 32 billion vehicle miles.
With 112 million Americans riding bikes at least once in 2024, more cyclists are sharing increasingly congested roads. This combination creates a perfect storm of potential hazards for even the most careful cyclists.
The rise of e-bikes adds another layer of risk. According to a 2024 study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association, e-bike injuries skyrocketed by more than 99% annually between 2017 and 2022, from roughly 8,500 to over 56,000 injuries.
Safety tips for cyclists before you ride
Carefully preparing before you hit the road can significantly reduce your risk of injury. The right gear and clothing aren’t just about comfort – they are essential safety measures that could save your life. These include:
- Wearing a properly fitted helmet that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission standards
- Using front and rear lights, even during daylight hours
- Choosing bright, visible clothing (yellow, red, orange or blue) rather than dark colors
- Investing in cycling gloves to maintain grip and protect your hands in a fall
- Protecting your eyes with cycling glasses to shield them from debris and sun glare
- Checking that your bicycle is well-maintained with working brakes and properly inflated tires
Taking these precautions before heading out can mean the difference between a minor incident and a serious injury requiring medical attention.
Highway safety checklist
While you can’t control the behavior of motorists around you, you can take steps to maximize your safety when sharing the road. Staying vigilant and following proper cycling etiquette reduces your risk of accidents. Cyclists should:
- Obey all traffic laws, signs and signals just as you would when driving
- Ride in the same direction as traffic
- Stay alert for hazards like potholes, glass and opening car doors
- Use hand signals to communicate your intentions to turn or stop
- Maintain a predictable riding pattern without weaving
- Ride single file to allow vehicles and other cyclists to pass safely
- Skip the headphones and phone use while riding
- Be aware of your speed, especially on e-bikes
Following these guidelines will help minimize your risk on the road, but accidents can still happen due to negligent drivers. If you’re injured while cycling, seeking prompt medical care and skilled legal help can ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.