How Safe Is Cycling? Understanding the Risks and Riding Smarter

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A cyclist riding safely in a bike lane

Cycling Is Awesome — But Is It Safe?
 Bicycling is one of the best ways to stay fit, explore your surroundings, and lighten your carbon footprint. But let’s be real — safety matters, and it’s worth understanding the risks before you clip in and roll out.

The Biggest Risk: Motor Vehicle Collisions
According to the National Center for Health Statistics, there were 1,260 bicycle deaths in 2020. More than 800 of those involved collisions with motor vehicles. The rest were non-traffic incidents, but they’re still serious.

Why do so many crashes happen? A few common reasons:

  • Distracted driving: Phones, food, texts — you name it. Distracted drivers pose a real threat to cyclists.

  • Failure to yield: Whether at intersections or while passing, drivers not yielding properly is a big problem.

  • Speeding: The faster a car is going, the more dangerous it is for everyone — especially cyclists.

  • Lack of visibility: Cyclists without lights or bright clothing are harder to see, especially at night or in low light.

How Cyclists Can Reduce Their Risk
 You can’t control what drivers do, but you can stack the odds in your favor:

  • Obey traffic laws. Stop at lights. Yield where needed. Ride like you’re part of traffic — because you are.

  • Be predictable. Signal clearly. Avoid weaving between parked cars. Ride in a straight, visible line.

  • Stay visible. Bright clothing in the day. Front and rear lights at night. Reflective gear never hurts.

  • Stay aware. Look around often. Anticipate drivers making mistakes. Ride proactively, not passively.

Other Hazards to Watch Out For
 Not every crash involves a car. Here are a few more dangers to keep in mind:

  • Falls: The most common injury for cyclists. Often caused by potholes, debris, uneven pavement, or slippery conditions.

  • Road hazards: Glass, nails, or loose gravel can turn a smooth ride into a crash.

  • Dogs: Yep — a loose dog can be a serious danger. Slow down and prepare to stop if you see one heading your way.

So… Is Cycling Safe?
Yes — with the right precautions. Like most things in life, there’s risk involved. But those risks can be managed. Thousands of people ride safely every day, and you can too.

More Tips to Ride Safer
 Want to boost your safety even more? Here’s what I recommend:

  • Always wear a helmet. It’s the easiest way to protect your brain in a fall.

  • Maintain your bike. Check your tires, brakes, and chain regularly.

  • Ride defensively. Assume drivers don’t see you and ride with caution.

  • Check the weather. Avoid riding in heavy rain, snow, or low-visibility conditions.

Final Thought
 Cycling has changed my life — and I’ve seen firsthand how safety and enjoyment can go hand-in-hand. Don’t let fear keep you off the bike. Let knowledge and preparation give you the freedom to ride smarter and safer.


Location: Lubbock, TX, USA

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