The 50 Deadliest U.S. Counties for Bicyclists

Electric bikes, scooters, and bicycles are increasing in popularity due to their low environmental impact and cost-saving benefits. They also give people an opportunity to get outside and exercise. As the number of cyclists on the road increases, so do the number of accidents. Unfortunately, these accidents can lead to serious injury or even death. The number of bicycle deaths per year has increased 30% in the past 10 years, and there were 857 bicyclists killed in traffic accidents in 2018 alone.

We conducted a comprehensive analysis of bicyclist fatality statistics from the U.S. Department of Transportation to determine which counties in the country are deadliest for cyclists.

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Which U.S. Counties Are Deadliest for Bicyclists?

To reach our conclusion, we gathered the Department of Transportation’s statistics on pedal cyclists killed in fatal crashes from 2014 to 2018 in counties with more than 50,000 residents to determine which counties had the most fatalities per 100,000 residents.

These are the counties that we found to be the deadliest for cyclists:

Monroe County in Florida is home to Key West. Key West is a very bike-friendly town, and because the island is 4.2 square miles, cycling is a very popular way to get around. Unfortunately, a bicycle accident is always a potential hazard, and this popular destination is always full of tourists, making accidents common. One must always consider the risks of riding a bicycle before getting on the road.

Dangers on the Road

Negligent drivers are the cause of many bicycle accidents every year. Drivers who aren’t following the rules of the road or are under the influence can be unpredictable, putting even the most cautious of cyclists in harm’s way. If you do find yourself in a bicycle, e-bike, or scooter accident caused by a motorist, you may need to contact a bike accident lawyer, as the driver could be liable for the damages.

Unsafe road conditions are also a common danger to cyclists. Defects like potholes, protruding construction plates, trenches, and road hardware can be incredibly dangerous to those on electric bikes, scooters, or bicycles. If a city or municipality is responsible for fixing these hazards, they could be liable for any accidents they cause.

Electric scooters and bicycles pose unique dangers as well. Because they are motorized, e-bikes can reach speeds of more than 20 miles per hour, making accidents potentially more serious. They also have more parts that can become faulty, putting the riders at risk. These electric bike problems can lead to injuries like broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord injuries, or even death.

E-Bike, Scooter, and Bicycle Safety Tips

It’s very important that all cyclists stay safe while on the road. Practicing proper bike safety is crucial to avoid getting into an accident. While it’s not possible to completely protect yourself from the risks of cycling, following these tips can help you avoid harm due to accidents:

• Wear a helmet. Make sure the helmet fits properly so that you are well-protected in case of an accident.
• Make sure you are visible on the roads. Wear reflective gear, reflectors on your bike, bright clothing during the day, and front and rear lights on your bike at night or when visibility is poor.
• Drive in the same direction as traffic. Use hand signals to alert drivers if you intend to turn or slow down.
• Follow the rules of the road. Understand the traffic laws in your area.