Photo By: Velo_City
As I’ve commented on earlier this year, it’s felt like a really awful year on the safety front. However, I think some of that feeling may come from an increase in welcome attention on cycling and cycling accidents. It appears that while there has still been an unacceptable number of accidents and especially fatalities, it seems that this year has been safer than last year. Additionally, things are better nationally as well:
At least 150 bicycle accidents have led to four deaths in Oklahoma this year. Sadly, the numbers are an improvement from 2009 when 11 cyclists lost their lives on the road. As more people take up cycling for transportation or as a healthy hobby, they’re concerned about safety.
. . . Also, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports the number of fatalities on a national level is down 6 percent from 10 years ago, but cyclists like Scott Blackwell know there’s always a risk no matter how defensive the driving.
via Cyclists on alert as they share the road | KOSU Radio.
And while there is nothing to cheer about with any fatality, that while ridership is up, fatalities are dropping is a sign that cyclists are being noticed and that things are getting better.