This post was written by Sarah Hoeppner MSN, RN, CCRN, TCRN, adult trauma program manager, Parkview Regional Medical Center, and Dr. William Beck, FACS, adult trauma medical director, Parkview Regional Medical Center.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 1,103 bicyclists lost their lives in bike traffic crashes in 2024. At Parkview Regional Medical Center, bicycle-related crashes remain in the top five highest mechanisms of injury we treat at the trauma center, with more than 50 bicyclists injured annually.
Did you know …
- Bicyclist deaths are the highest during the months of July - October.
- Nearly 3/4 of all bicyclist deaths occurred in urban areas.
- Bicyclists failing to yield the right of way was the highest factor in fatal bike crashes, followed by bicyclists not being visible.
Helmet safety basics
Every bike ride should begin with putting on a helmet, but it only works if it fits properly. An improperly fitted helmet won’t protect you effectively in a crash.
- Always review the manufacturer’s guide to ensure correct sizing and adjustment.
- A properly fitted helmet should:
- Sit level on your head (not tilted forward or backward)
- Feel snug but comfortable, with no pressure points
- Stay secure and stable when you move your head
If you need help, the Parkview Trauma Safety Store offers free helmet fittings.
Riding safety
There are two main types of bicycle crashes:
- Falls from the bike are the most common type
- Collisions with motorists are the most serious and often life-threatening
No matter how a crash happens, prevention is key. There are steps every cyclist can take to reduce their risk of being involved in a crash.
To stay safe while cycling, follow these important steps:
- Ride a bike that fits you: A bike that is too large or too small is harder to control and increases your risk of a crash.
- Ride a bike that works properly: Make sure your brakes, tires and other components are in good condition. Your skills won’t matter if your bike isn’t safe.
- Wear protective and visible gear:o
- Always wear a helmet
- Wear bright clothingo
- Use reflective gear and lights when riding at night or in low visibility
- Equip your bike with a white front light, red rear light and reflectors
- Follow safe riding habits
- Only one rider per seat
- Keep both hands on the handlebars, except when signaling turns
- Secure your belongings: Carry items in a backpack or strap them securely to your bike.
- Prevent clothing hazards: Tuck in or tie shoelaces and loose pant legs so they don’t get caught in the bike chain.
- Plan your route ahead of time
- Choose roads with less traffic and slower speeds
- When possible, use bike lanes or bike paths for greater safety
Defensive, predictable riding and road awareness
Stay focused and alert to the road and traffic around you. Good cyclists practice defensive riding, which means anticipating what others might do before they do it. The sooner you recognize a potential hazard, the faster you can act to avoid a crash.
Ride smart on the road:
- Ride with the flow of traffic (in the same direction as cars).
- Obey all traffic laws, including signs, signals and road markings.
- Assume others may not see you and stay alert for hazards like toys, pebbles, potholes, grates, train tracks or uneven surfaces.
- Avoid distractions: No texting or headphones/music. Keep your eyes, ears and attention on the road.
Be predictable and visible: Being predictable helps drivers understand your movements and react safely.
- Ride where drivers expect to see you.
- Avoid blind spots whenever possible.
- Signal turns and lane changes clearly.
- Look over your shoulder before changing position or turning.
Sidewalk riding safety
It’s best to avoid riding on sidewalks when possible:
- Drivers don’t expect fast-moving bicycles on sidewalks.
- They may not look for you when backing out or turning.
- Sidewalks can end suddenly, forcing you into traffic unexpectedly.
If you must ride on the sidewalk:
- Check local laws to make sure it’s allowed.
- Always watch for pedestrians.
- Give warnings when passing, such as “On your left” or use a bell.
- Ride in the same direction as traffic.
- When crossing streets: Stop and look in all directions, follow pedestrian signals and be ready to stop.
- Use extra caution at driveways and intersections.
Always remember to share the road
People on bicycles have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. Safe roads depend on mutual awareness and respect.
For more information about bicycle safety and sharing the road, click here
