According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, bicycles make up just 1% of all trips in the U.S. but account for over 2% of traffic fatalities on our nation’s roads.
That translates to more than 1,000 bicycle accident-related fatalities each year and over 130,000 bicycle injuries.
These statistics paint a stark picture of the dangers of cycling and the need for drivers of motor vehicles to be more vigilant when sharing the road with bicycles. A Long Island bicycle accident lawyer can provide crucial support for injured cyclists.
The Joys and Risks of Bicycling
Whether commuting for work, exercising, or for the sheer joy of being outdoors, bicycling is a cherished activity across Long Island and the U.S. However, riding along Nassau and Suffolk counties’ busy roads can pose significant risks for cyclists. Accidents happen, often leading to severe injuries or, tragically, fatalities. Here’s a closer look at the prevalence of bicycle accidents, their fatality rates, and the factors contributing to these incidents.
The National Picture: Fatalities in Bicycle Accidents
On a national scale, the percentage of bicycle accidents that result in fatalities is relatively small but still deeply concerning.
According to the latest data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), an independent, nonprofit scientific and educational organization, 1,084 bicyclists died in crashes with motor vehicles last year—the highest number of bicycle fatalities ever recorded.
The percentage of bicycle deaths reached its lowest point in 2010 but has increased 75% over the past decade. Most of the people killed in bicycle accidents — a staggering 89% — were age 20 and older.
Meanwhile, deaths among bicyclists younger than 20 have decreased significantly in the past five decades.
While most bicycle accidents result in injuries rather than fatalities, the fatality rate remains a stark reminder of the dangers cyclists face. Even minor collisions can result in catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord injuries, or internal bleeding.
The costs of bicycle injuries and deaths from accidents in the U.S. exceed $23 billion annually due to health care expenses and lost work productivity, not to mention the estimated cost for lost quality of life and lives lost.
New York Bicycle Accident Statistics
Just under a third of adult New Yorkers — roughly two million people — ride a bike, and nearly one million of them do so regularly. As the fourth most populated state, New York sees its share of bicycle accidents.
Last year, 30 people died while riding their bikes in New York City, and accidents injured another 5,158.
Long Island-Specific Bicycle Accident Statistics
Cyclists on Long Island encounter unique challenges that increase the risk of accidents. The dense traffic, inadequate cycling infrastructure, and distracted driving incidents make this area particularly hazardous.
According to local reports at least 62 cyclists have died in crashes across Long Island, and another 12,533 were injured. Most fatal bicycle accidents on Long Island occur on high-speed roadways like Sunrise Highway, Route 25A, and Montauk Highway. These areas lack adequate bike lanes and safe shoulders for cyclists.
Who Is Most at Risk?
While bicycle accidents can happen to anyone, certain groups and circumstances make individuals more vulnerable to severe or fatal outcomes. Understanding these risk factors can help shape better safety strategies and interventions.
Age Groups
Different age groups face unique risks when it comes to bicycle accidents:
Children and Teenagers:
- Cyclists under 15 years old are disproportionately involved in non-fatal accidents. This is often due to their smaller size, which makes them less visible to drivers. Children also have less experience with traffic rules and may act unpredictably. Darting out into the street or failing to signal can lead to collisions.
- Many accidents involving children occur in residential neighborhoods, near schools, or on streets like Middle Country Road in Suffolk County. These heavy traffic areas often see children riding bikes to and from school.
Adults 50 to 64 Years Old:
- Adults in this age group have the highest fatality rates in bicycle accidents, according to the NHTSA, perhaps due to:
- Reduced physical resilience, making injuries sustained more severe or fatal.
- Increased likelihood of cycling on busy streets as part of commutes or for exercise, such as on Northern Boulevard or Sunrise Highway.
- Adults may not wear helmets, believing they don’t need them for shorter or recreational rides.
Older Adults (65 and Above):
Cyclists over 65 are also at high risk due to age-related vulnerabilities such as slower reflexes, diminished eyesight, and less flexibility to avoid accidents. When older cyclists are in accidents, their recovery tends to take longer and require more complicated medical care.
Gender
Gender disparities in bicycle accidents consistently emerge in traffic safety studies:
Men:
- Male cyclists account for approximately 87% of all bicyclist fatalities nationwide. This trend is often linked to:
- Higher ridership among men.
- More frequent riding in urban environments or high-risk areas like Hempstead Turnpike.
- Greater participation in competitive or high-speed cycling, which can lead to crashes at higher impact speeds.
Women:
Female cyclists are less likely to die in bicycle accidents but may still face significant injury risks. Women are more likely to ride shorter distances and stay within designated paths or low-traffic areas, which reduces their exposure to high-speed roadways.
While men are statistically more likely to die in bicycle accidents, all cyclists face danger when sharing the road with inattentive or negligent drivers.
Time of Day
The timing of a bicycle ride can significantly increase the likelihood of an accident:
Evening Hours (6 p.m. to 9 p.m.):
- A large percentage of fatal bicycle accidents occur during evening hours. Reduced visibility, even in well-lit areas like downtown Huntington or Port Jefferson, increases the risk of collisions.
- Commuters returning home during rush hour may be more fatigued or distracted, further endangering cyclists.
Early Morning (5 a.m. to 7 a.m.):
Early morning rides can present dangers, particularly on suburban roads like Deer Park Avenue, where drivers may not expect cyclists. Limited natural light and potential weather conditions, such as fog, exacerbate risks.
Nighttime (9 p.m. to Midnight):
Nighttime cycling is particularly dangerous, especially for cyclists without reflective gear or proper lighting. High-risk areas include rural stretches of Old Montauk Highway, where street lighting is sparse, and vehicle speeds are higher.
Other Vulnerable Groups
Additional groups also face heightened risks:
- Delivery Cyclists: With the rise of food delivery services, many delivery workers ride bicycles in urban areas like Long Beach or Patchogue Village, often weaving through traffic. Their focus on timely deliveries can lead to risky maneuvers and accidents.
- Recreational Riders: Casual riders who cycle for exercise or leisure on roads like Jones Beach Bikeway may not be as vigilant about following traffic rules, making them vulnerable to collisions.
- Cyclists Without Helmets: Regardless of age or experience level, cyclists who forgo helmets dramatically increase their risk of fatal injuries in accidents. While New York only mandates helmets for riders under 14, wearing one is a simple and effective way to prevent severe head trauma.
Why Do Bicycle Accidents Happen?
The causes of bicycle accidents on Long Island are varied, but many can be linked to negligence. Here are the most common factors:
Driver Negligence
Motorists often fail to notice cyclists, especially when changing lanes, making turns, or driving distracted. In many cases, drivers fail to yield the right of way to cyclists or misjudge their speed and proximity.
Poor Infrastructure
Many Long Island roadways lack designated bike lanes or safe crossings. Cyclists are often forced to share narrow roads with speeding vehicles, increasing the risk of side-swiping or rear-ending incidents.
Distracted Driving and Riding
Texting, eating, or even adjusting GPS systems contribute to accidents for both cyclists and drivers. On Long Island’s busy roads, even a momentary lapse in attention can have dire consequences.
Speeding
High-speed roads like Northern State Parkway and Meadowbrook State Parkway are especially dangerous for cyclists. When vehicles travel at excessive speeds, the likelihood of a fatal collision increases dramatically.
Alcohol Use
Alcohol plays a significant role in many bicycle accidents.
The Psychological and Economic Toll on Families
Fatal bicycle accidents devastate not only the victims but also their families. Losing a loved one suddenly in such a preventable way causes profound grief and financial strain.
Families often face:
- Medical Bills: Even in non-fatal accidents, victims can accrue hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical expenses for surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
- Lost Income: If the victim was a family’s primary breadwinner, the loss of income can plunge families into financial instability.
- Emotional Distress: Parents, children, and spouses often struggle with post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression following a severe accident or fatality.
Legal Rights and Responsibilities of Cyclists in New York
New York law grants cyclists many of the same rights and responsibilities as drivers.
Here’s what cyclists and motorists should know:
Cyclists’ Rights
- Cyclists are allowed to use the full lane in situations where riding on the far-right side of the road is unsafe.
- New York’s Three-Foot Passing Law requires vehicles to maintain a safe distance when overtaking bicycles.
Cyclists’ Responsibilities
- Cyclists must obey all traffic signals and signs.
- Cyclists under 14 must wear helmets, but everyone should wear them.
Improving Safety for Cyclists on Long Island
Preventing bicycle accidents requires a multi-faceted approach involving individuals, communities, and local governments. Here are some actionable recommendations:
Infrastructure Improvements
Local governments must prioritize the creation of safer bike lanes, clearer signage, and dedicated bike paths. Areas like the Bethpage Bikeway serve as excellent examples of how infrastructure can make cycling safer and more enjoyable.
Driver Awareness Campaigns
Public awareness campaigns can remind drivers to share the road responsibly and stay vigilant, especially on high-traffic roads like Jericho Turnpike and Veterans Memorial Highway.
Cyclist Education
Programs that teach cyclists how to navigate urban areas, use hand signals, and ride defensively can reduce accidents.
Increased Law Enforcement
Strict enforcement of speeding and distracted driving laws, especially in accident-prone areas, can deter negligent driving.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident
If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries appear minor, get evaluated immediately. Some injuries, like TBIs or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.
- Document the Scene: Take photographs of the accident site, your bicycle, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
- File a Police Report: A police report is essential for insurance claims and potential legal action.
- Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer: An experienced Long Island bicycle accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.
A Safer Future for Cyclists on Long Island
Cycling on Long Island should be a safe and enjoyable activity for everyone. While the percentage of bicycle accidents that result in fatalities may be relatively low, the emotional and physical toll of these incidents cannot be understated. By working together to improve infrastructure, raise awareness, and hold negligent parties accountable, we can create a safer environment for cyclists.
At Rosenberg & Gluck, LLP, we understand the profound impact bicycle accidents can have on victims and their families. Our compassionate and dedicated legal team is here to help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.
If a bicycle accident injured you or a loved one, contact our Long Island bicycle accident lawyer today at (631) 451-7900 or through our online form for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your legal options.
