According to the most recent statistics available from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), California had the highest annual number of bicyclist fatalities in the nation in 2016, with a total of 147 fatalities. These fatalities made up 4.1% of the total traffic fatalities in the state in 2016, which was 3,623, which also was the highest number of traffic fatalities in the nation. Within the state of California, bicyclist fatalities were highest in Los Angeles (20) and lowest in San Diego (1) and San Francisco (1).

The NHTSA also gathered some common characteristics of fatal bicycle accidents from the 2016 nationwide data. From the data, the NHTSA was able to conclude that:

·         Most bicyclist fatalities occur in urban as opposed to rural areas.

·         Slightly more bicycle fatalities happen during daytime hours rather than nighttime hours.

·         The highest number of fatal bicycle accidents occurs in the winter over any other season.

·         Victims of bicycle fatalities have an average age of 46 and are predominantly male.

·         Individuals between the ages of 60 and 64, whether male or female, had the highest bicyclist fatality rates

Ninety-five percent of the bicyclists in 2016 were fatally injured in a single-vehicle crash. The front end of a vehicle struck the bicyclist in the majority (78%) of the fatal accidents. Light trucks were the vehicles most likely to be involved in fatal bicycle accidents.

Unfortunately, these statistics show that bicyclist fatalities are continuing to gradually climb in California and across the nation. As a result, bicyclists should be sure to heed important safety reminders, such as always wearing a helmet, obeying the rules of the road, and taking steps to increase their visibility to motorists by wearing bright or reflective clothing and equipping their bikes with lights and reflectors.

When you have been injured in a bicycle accident, you need an attorney who knows bike laws and can stand up for your interests from the outset of your personal injury claim. It is our goal to evaluate the facts, assess your claim, explore your options, and help you build the strongest claim for compensation possible against those who are responsible for the accident that led to your injuries. Do not hesitate to contact Bonnici Law Group at 858-261-5454 today and set up an appointment to speak with us soon.