The Biggest Threat to Long Distance Cyclists: The Rise of the Distracted Driver The Growing Risk on the Open Road When we think of cycling dangers, we often picture potholes, sudden storms, or mechanical failure. But for today’s long-distance cyclists, the most serious threat comes from something far more modern: distracted drivers. In the era of smartphones and endless connectivity, drivers are more mentally absent than ever before. That inattention has deadly consequences for cyclists—especially those riding long stretches of road. What Makes Distracted Driving So Dangerous? 📱 Texting While Driving Texting takes a driver’s eyes off the road for an average of five seconds—long enough to travel the length of a football field without looking. For a cyclist in the lane ahead, that’s potentially fatal. 📲 Scrolling Social Media Even a quick glance at Instagram or TikTok can steal the driver’s focus. A car veering slightly over the white line can mean disaster for a cyclist ...
The Old Guy Bicycle Blog Cycling stories, tips, and reflections from a 69-year-old rider who’s still chasing the road—and loving every mile. Visit my blog today and start learning about cycling!