Bicyclist fatalities are on the rise nationwide, according to recently released statistics, a troubling reversal from recent years that deserves attention.
Since the 1970s, the number of people killed while riding a bicycle had reliably declined. However, between 2010 and 2012, cyclist deaths increased 16 percent. In Colorado, cyclist deaths went from eight in 2010 to 13 in 2012.
The , by the Governors Highway Safety Association, also noted that more than two-thirds of cyclists who died were not wearing helmets. Adult males in urban areas are most likely to be killed.
Wearing a helmet is an important safety precaution that every rider should take. In addition, cities could do more to segregate bike lanes from vehicles. And everybody, including cyclists, needs to respect traffic laws.
Bike riding is a healthy transit option, but much can and should be done to make it safer.
