When Do Most Bicycle Accidents Happen?

Biking is a convenient and eco-friendly way to travel. It’s a commonly preferred mode of transportation for those who go to work, attend social events, or run errands. People also bike as a form of exercise. However, like any activity, cycling comes with risks. While bicycle accidents can happen anytime, some hours of the day are more dangerous than others. In particular, the hours between 6 p.m. and 8:59 p.m. tend to show more crashes.

The risks cyclists face can vary depending on the time of day. For instance, as the evening rush hour begins, roads become more congested, and cyclists may find themselves navigating through heavier traffic, which increases the likelihood of accidents. Other factors can also contribute to the heightened risk of accidents during certain hours.

Bicycle Accident Trends: A Closer Look At The Data

Bicycle accidents are more likely to happen in the early evening as darkness sets in and many vehicles are on the road. The data on fatal bicycle accidents with motor vehicles supports this.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that in 2022, the highest number of bicycle-related fatalities happened between 6 p.m. and 8:59 p.m., making up 21% of the total. However, the timing varied between weekdays and weekends.

• On weekdays, most deadly bicycling accidents occurred between 3 p.m. and 5:59 p.m. (20%), with 6 p.m. to 8:59 p.m. close behind (19%).
• On weekends, the highest fatality rate shifted from 9 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. (24%), followed by 6 p.m. to 8:59 p.m. (23%).

The time when accidents occur also varies depending on which season it is.

• Winter — 30% of cyclist fatalities occurred between 6 p.m. and 8:59 p.m., followed by 19% from 3 p.m. to 5:59 p.m.
• Spring — The highest percentage (22%) of cyclist deaths happened between 9 p.m. and 11:59 p.m. The 6 p.m. to 8:59 p.m. period saw 15%.
• Summer — More bicycle-related fatalities occurred from around 9 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. (21%) than at any other time, while 19% happened between 3 p.m. and 5:59 p.m.
• Fall — More cyclists were killed in accidents between 6 p.m. and 8:59 p.m., accounting for 23%, while 16% of fatalities happened between 9 p.m. and 11:59 p.m.

Key Factors Behind High-Risk Times For Bicycle Accidents

There are many reasons why 51% of fatal bicycle accidents happen in the dark, while 3% and 2% occur at dusk and dawn, respectively. The main issue is that cyclists are harder to see. Their low profile and smaller size compared to passenger vehicles make them less visible to drivers, potentially leading to accidents with motor vehicles. Furthermore, many bicycle accidents occur at certain times of the day because of the following factors:

• Low Light Conditions — Poor lighting makes it difficult to spot dangerous road conditions like potholes, uneven pavement, and debris. If a cyclist hits one of these obstacles unexpectedly, they are at a high risk of losing control due to the bike’s lack of stability. Dimly lit roads also make it harder for other drivers to see cyclists.
• Vision Impairment — Human vision is naturally impaired in low-light conditions. Some people also have difficulty seeing in low-contrast situations, making it harder to judge distances and speeds accurately. Additionally, peripheral vision decreases in the dark, limiting cyclists’ ability to notice other road users approaching from the sides.
• Traffic Congestion — Vehicles are most concentrated on the road after sunset, between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., which increases the chances of traffic accidents.
• Impaired Drivers — Cyclists are more likely to come across drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs at night, raising the risk of DUI accidents. Impaired drivers often misjudge distances and have slower reaction times, making them more likely to overlook or misinterpret a cyclist’s movements.
• Reckless Drivers — Drivers might feel more inclined to drive faster or recklessly during late-night hours when the roads are less crowded. This puts cyclists at higher risk of reckless driving accidents, as they are less visible to other motorists. Additionally, during rush hour, some drivers might ignore traffic signs and right-of-way laws to gain an advantage, creating dangerous conditions for cyclists.

Where Do Most Bicycle Accidents Happen?

Bicycle accidents can happen anywhere, but in certain places, the risk is particularly high due to traffic volume, road layout, and poor visibility. According to the NHTSA report, urban areas tend to pose more challenges for bicyclists. This can be a combination of the high concentration of motor vehicles, a lack of adequate bicycle infrastructure, and other hazards.

When bike lanes are located near busy roads, cyclists are exposed to an increased risk if car doors suddenly open or vehicles turn unexpectedly. They are especially vulnerable to sideswipes and rear-end accidents.

These factors contribute to higher cyclist fatalities in urban areas. In 2022, 83% of bicyclists killed in traffic crashes were in urban areas, while 17% died in rural locations. Nevertheless, rural areas still pose significant risks, such as increased vehicle speeds, poor lighting, and a lack of dedicated bicycle lanes.

Fatal accidents frequently occurred in non-intersection areas, but intersection accidents accounted for a significant portion of fatalities. In that same year, 29% of deaths happened at intersections, while approximately 12% occurred in other locations, including shoulders, sidewalks, bike lanes, shared-use paths, driveway access, and non-traffic areas.

Best Tips To Stay Safe While Cycling

Bicycle accidents can occur at any time of the day and anywhere. Follow these tips to ensure your safety while cycling:

• Make sure your bike is in good condition by regularly checking the brakes, tires, and gears. Mechanical failures can lead to bicycle accidents, so keeping everything in working order is essential.
• Properly fitted bike helmets reduce the risk of significant head injuries by 60%. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 62% of bicyclists killed in traffic accidents in 2022 were not wearing a helmet.
• Always ride with the traffic flow, not against it. Obey all traffic signs and signals.
• Use hand signals when turning or changing lanes to make your intentions clear.
• Keep both hands on the handlebars, and avoid using headphones or other devices that could impair your perception of your surroundings.
• Use bike lanes and bike paths whenever they are available to reduce the risk of collisions with motor vehicles.
• Tuck in shoelaces, tie off loose pant legs, and ensure nothing that could get caught in your bike chain hangs loose.
• Plan your trip. Choose routes with lighter traffic and lower speeds. Ride during the day.
• Stick to familiar routes. Unfamiliar roads can be more challenging to navigate, especially at night.
• Ride slowly at night to give yourself more time to respond to unexpected obstacles and conserve energy.

Making Yourself More Visible While Riding In The Dark

If you must venture out at night, improve your visibility to other motorists and road users by wearing reflective clothing or accessories. For example, some helmets also come with built-in lights that provide additional visibility. Additionally, ensure your bicycle complies with your state’s requirements regarding lights and reflectors. In California, for example, bicycles must be equipped with:

• A front white light that is visible from 300 feet.
• A rear red reflector or light (solid or flashing) visible from 500 feet.
• A white or yellow reflector on each pedal, foot, or ankle that is visible from 200 feet.
• A white or yellow reflector is on each side at the front of the bike’s center, and a white or red reflector is on each side to the rear of the center.

Other Bicycle Accident Statistics

The number of bicycle injuries and deaths can vary based on different data sources. In 2022, the National Center for Health Statistics reported that there were 1,360 bicyclist fatalities. Out of these, about 928 people lost their lives in crashes involving motor vehicles, while the remaining fatalities were due to other types of incidents. Additionally, there were approximately 337,738 nonfatal injuries that were deemed preventable.

On the other hand, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported a lower figure of 1,105 cyclist deaths from traffic crashes in the same year. This represented a 13% increase from the 976 deaths recorded in 2021. Meanwhile, the Consumer Product Safety Commission highlighted that 405,411 injuries treated in emergency departments were related to bicycles and bicycle accessories.

What To Do After A Bicycle Accident

Even if you take the proper precautions while riding a bicycle, accidents can still occur, especially during peak road hours. Knowing how to respond in such a situation can make a difference in your safety and the aftermath. If you find yourself in an accident, regardless of the time of day, follow these tips:

Ensure Your Safety

Following a bicycle collision, your immediate priority should be safety. Move out of harm’s way as carefully as possible. If you cannot move due to significant injuries, ask for assistance or stay where you are to prevent aggravating your condition.

Call 911 and wait for medical assistance. Additionally, requesting the police officers to come to the accident scene may be necessary so they can document the incident. A police report can be beneficial if you’re planning to file a claim or lawsuit to seek compensation.

Collect Evidence And Information

Start by taking photographs of your injuries, the damage to your bike, any other vehicles involved, and the surrounding area. Note the date and time of the accident, weather conditions, traffic signals, and other details you see at the scene. If there are witnesses, collect their contact details. Ask for the other party’s name, contact number, address, and insurance information.

Seek Further Medical Attention

Seeing a doctor is especially important after a crash, even if you think you feel fine. You should get immediate treatment to avoid complications. Getting medical attention also creates a record that connects your injuries to the accident. This document is helpful when your condition worsens, and you need to claim unexpected medical expenses.

As bicyclists don’t have the same protection as occupants of motor vehicles, they are more likely to sustain more significant injuries in a collision. Cyclists can also sustain traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and spinal cord injuries (SCIs) after an accident. These conditions typically require immediate diagnosis and treatment for a better recovery. Early medical evaluation is key to managing these injuries and strengthening your personal injury claim.

Consult A Lawyer

Working with a bicycle accident lawyer who can effectively advocate for your rights is essential from the start of your personal injury claim. They will carefully review the details, assess your claim, explore your options, and assist you in making the best decisions.

How A Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help

A bicycle accident case can be complex, necessitating substantial investigation. In many cases, injured victims think twice about hiring legal representation due to financial constraints. You need bike accident lawyers who understand what is required to win your case. Here’s how they can help you deal with the consequences of the accident:

Investigating Your Accident

A thorough investigation is essential to building a solid case. Your lawyer for your bicycle accident will obtain any photos or videos of the scene, eyewitness accounts, police reports, and other documents that can support your claim. This helps establish the facts of your case and brings you closer to getting compensation.

Determining Liability

The at-fault party pays for the victim’s damages in states like California. This requires finding out who caused the accident and to what degree. Bicycle accident lawyers can identify all the liable parties and ensure they are held accountable for your injuries and damages.

Proving The Negligence Of The Other Party

To build a strong case, your bike accident lawyers must establish that the other party is liable by proving four elements of negligence. You must build a case that shows that:

• The defendant owed you a duty of care.
• They breached that duty.
• Their actions or inaction directly caused the accident.
• You sustained injuries and damages due to the driver’s actions or inaction.

Calculating Your Damages

If your injuries occurred due to someone else’s fault, you may be entitled to receive compensation. A lawyer specializing in bicycle accidents can accurately account for all your losses to ensure you have what you need to recover fully. They can also work with medical specialists and economists to substantiate the value of your losses. These damages can include:

• Medical expenses resulting from the bicycle accident.
• Prescriptions and follow-up care for injuries sustained.
• Emotional distress and psychological impacts.
• Scarring, disfigurement, and long-term disabilities.
• Property damage (such as your bike, helmet, or other personal belongings).

If the accident resulted in the untimely passing of your loved one, we can also help you pursue a wrongful death claim. Wrongful death damages can cover the loss of financial support, funeral expenses, and the emotional toll experienced by family members.

Pursuing Maximum Compensation

Your team of bicycle accident lawyers will work to negotiate a fair settlement with insurance companies. The process can be more challenging if other parties attempt to shift some or all of the blame onto you. At Arash Law, we know how to navigate these challenges. Our lawyers have the skills and resources to fight for the amount that fully covers your losses. If a fair settlement cannot be reached during negotiations, we won’t hesitate to take your case to trial.

Frequently Asked Questions

When Are Cyclists Safest On Our Roads?

Cyclists are generally safest in the middle of the night and early hours of the morning. This is primarily due to the reduced road traffic during these times, which lowers the chances of accidents. NHTSA’s 2022 report showed that the midnight to 2:59 a.m. period and the 3 a.m. to 5:59 a.m. period had the lowest fatality rates among cyclists in motor vehicle accidents. Each time frame showed only 8% of cyclist fatalities during those hours.

However, if we specifically look at weekend data, the safest times change to 6 a.m. to 8:59 a.m. with 5% cyclist traffic fatalities. The second safest period is noon to 2:59 p.m. with 7%. The daylight contributes to the reduced rates of bicycle accidents.

Is It Safer To Ride A Bike At Night?

Several factors determine how safe it is to ride a bike at night. If we look at fatality rates in 2022, cycling is more dangerous in the dark. About 51% of cyclist deaths occurred at night, compared to 45% during daylight hours. Nighttime poses many risks, including reduced visibility, making it harder for drivers to see cyclists and increasing their vulnerability to road hazards.

Meanwhile, injuries are more common during the day, according to data from FIRST. Around 32,800 cyclists were injured during the daytime, representing 71% of injuries. Risks are present at any time. However, by taking the proper precautions, cyclists can reduce those risks, no matter what time of day they ride.

Which Day Is Riskiest For Bicyclists?

The riskiest day for cyclists varies depending on factors like traffic and weather. An analysis of 2022 data from FIRST shows that Fridays have more bike-related traffic fatalities. Around 181 deaths occurred on a Friday, making up over 16% of the total. Meanwhile, Thursday recorded 172 deaths (15.5%), while Saturday had 170 cases (15.3%). This is likely due to increased traffic as many people prepare for the weekend and go on errands or out with friends.

What Percentage Of Bike Riders Crash?

Based on 2022 data, less than 1% of bike riders are involved in crashes. In the United States, an estimated 54.7 million people rode a bike at least once. In the same year, the number of cyclists involved in motor vehicle crashes was around 47,000. Note that this does not include accidents that don’t involve motor vehicles and crashes that go unreported.

Do I Need To Hire A Bicycle Accident Lawyer Near Me?

Looking for an answer to the question, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” You need one if you’re injured in a bicycle accident. They can explain your rights and legal options. If the accident was due to someone else’s fault, a bicycle accident attorney can help you file for compensation. You may be able to recover your medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages.

Additionally, having legal representation can give you peace of mind and allow you to focus on your recovery. Your bike accident lawyers will handle the entire process, including communicating with the other parties and filing paperwork on time. This is especially crucial in personal injury claims, as you only have two years to bring a case to court. Once the deadline passes, you may lose your right to compensation.

Our Bicycle Accident Attorneys Can Help — Anytime, Anywhere in California

Accidents can happen at any time, often when we least expect them. If you or someone you care about is injured in a bicycle accident, contact Arash Law. Our lawyers for bicycle accidents are here to support you around the clock.

Our injury lawyers specialize in bike accident cases and can help you navigate the following challenges. We are dedicated to pursuing the most favorable outcome, ensuring our clients have what they need to rebuild their lives.

Arash Law is one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California. We are known for having some of the most aggressive car accident lawyers in the state. We’ve won over $750 million in settlements and awards for our clients; we can help you, too. Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no fees unless we win your case.

Call (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7, here for you when you need us most. If you’re looking for a good bicycle accident attorney, your search ends here. Our injury lawyers provide legal services throughout California, including Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Francisco, Sherman Oaks, San Jose, San Diego, Riverside, Pasadena, Bakersfield, Fresno, and Stockton.