Bicycling is a popular mode of transportation and leisure activity in the United States. However, like any other mode of transportation, it comes with its own set of risks, including accidents that can result in serious injury or death. According to statistics from the CDC, the lifetime odds of dying from a bicycle rider accident in the US are 1 in 3,362.
Looking at the data on deaths per year from bicycle rider accidents in the US and the one-year odds of dying, it is clear that there has been some fluctuation in the numbers over the years. In 2021, there were 1,255 deaths from bicycle rider accidents in the US, which translates to one-year odds of 1 in 264,566. This is slightly worse than the previous year, where the odds were 1 in 257,316 with 1,282 deaths.
Over the past two decades, the number of bicycle rider accident deaths has ranged from 770 in 2003 to 1,282 in 2020, with an average of 1,012 deaths per year. The one-year odds of dying in a bicycle rider accident have ranged from 257,316 in 2020 to 376,766 in 2003, with an average of 326,423.
While the numbers may seem high, it is important to note that the odds of dying in a bicycle rider accident are still relatively low compared to other causes of death. See list of other causes for more information.
Still, it is important for bicyclists to take precautions to minimize the risk of accidents. This can include wearing helmets, using lights and reflectors, following traffic laws, and staying alert and aware of their surroundings. It is also important for drivers to be aware of bicyclists on the road and to give them adequate space and consideration.
In conclusion, while the odds of dying from a bicycle rider accident in the US are not negligible, they are still relatively low compared to other causes of death. Bicycling can be a safe and enjoyable activity if proper precautions are taken by both bicyclists and drivers.
Year | Deaths | one-year odds |
---|---|---|
2021 | 1,255 | 1 in 264,566 |
2020 | 1,282 | 1 in 257,316 |
2019 | 1,111 | 1 in 295,445 |
2018 | 1,040 | 1 in 314,125 |
2017 | 1,039 | 1 in 312,791 |
2016 | 1,033 | 1 in 312,623 |
2015 | 1,039 | 1 in 308,604 |
2014 | 925 | 1 in 344,108 |
2013 | 936 | 1 in 337,596 |
2012 | 913 | 1 in 343,734 |
2011 | 882 | 1 in 353,242 |
2010 | 801 | 1 in 386,167 |
2009 | 791 | 1 in 387,825 |
2008 | 900 | 1 in 337,877 |
2007 | 835 | 1 in 360,754 |
2006 | 942 | 1 in 316,751 |
2005 | 938 | 1 in 315,053 |
2004 | 847 | 1 in 345,702 |
2003 | 770 | 1 in 376,766 |