Is riding a bicycle for transportation safe?

When I tell people that I routinely commute to work by bicycle, the most common response is “isn’t that really dangerous”.   My most common reply is, yes, just not as dangerous as NOT riding my bicycle.  The studies are clear that the benefits of riding your bike outweigh the risks by approximately 20 times!   If someone needs anymore convincing just have this handy statistic ready.  Bike sharing started in the US in 2007.  Since that time there have  been over 23 million rides taken by bike share riders in the US.  There have been exactly 0 fatalities!

Of course, I represent injured cyclists for a living and am very aware of the risks.  The good news is that as more people ride, the safer it is for all.  So by simply riding your bike you are making it a safer form of transportation for your self and others.  Though all my clients were primarily not at fault for their accidents, many of them still could have been avoided by better education for the cyclist and motor vehicle driver.   As we get into the fall riding season (my favorite time to ride), you should be more aware of road condition issues.   I would consider using a wider tire on your bike if possible (more rubber on the road), at least 28 mm wide.

I encourage all my readers to review safety tips in this link.  They are very helpful and should be read even if you are an experienced rider.

Ride. Be Safe.  Have Fun.

Andrew Kass/  Bicycle Injury Lawyer/ Enthusiast

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