Fietsersbond emphasizes the need to tackle road safety

In 2022, 737 people in the Netherlands will have died in a traffic accident, according to the figures of the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS). Of the 737 victims in total, 291 were cyclists and 225 car occupants. The remaining 221 road deaths concern pedestrians, motorcyclists and scooter drivers.

The 291 cyclists who died in an accident in 2022 means an increase of 40% compared to 2021. Director of the Fietsersbond, Esther van Garderen, calls on the governments to make more work of safer cycling.

More cycling fatalities among the over-75s

In 2021 there were 94 road deaths among cyclists aged 75 or older. A year later, this number had risen to 150 victims. According to the Fietsersbond, this increase is mainly due to the elderly who are increasingly getting on their bicycles for a nice bike ride. The popularity of e-bikes will also contribute to this. Vulnerable groups such as the over-75s must receive proper information about the safe use of (electric) bicycles. In addition, it is also important to be aware of the benefits of wearing a helmet.

Utrecht is the only province with fewer cycling deaths

The province of Utrecht is the only province in the Netherlands to experience a decrease in the number of cycling fatalities; from 20 to 12. Good news for the cyclists among us who live and work in Utrecht. But how could it have decreased in this province, while there are more road casualties in the rest of the Netherlands? In Brabant in particular, the number of fatal cycling victims has increased considerably. Van Garderen also has an answer to that. Utrecht is a leader in investing in cycling infrastructure. And it pays off, as these figures show.

Did you know that Utrecht has been voted the best city in the world for cycling by CNN?

What can you do to prevent a bicycle accident?

Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do about overcrowded cycle paths, poorly placed bollards and the sometimes inattentive motorists. There are a number of tips to reduce the risk of a bicycle accident.

#1 Always have good lighting

First of all, it is necessary to always have good lighting when you get on the bike. Between sunset and sunrise and during the day when visibility is obstructed, which is the case, for example, with fog, you are obliged to turn on your lights. Aren’t you doing this? Then you run the risk of getting a fine of 60 euros. Not only can you see the paths better with lighting. You are also more visible to other road users.

#2 Leave your smartphone in your jacket pocket while cycling

Research by the Foundation for Road Safety Research has shown that using your smartphone while cycling increases the risk of an accident by at least 25 times. Using your phone while cycling is therefore so risky that the police also enforce this. Do you have a phone in your hands while cycling? Then you can count on a fine of 95 euros.

With a phone holder you can cycle hands-free, safely and comply with the rules. Do you want to purchase a smartphone holder?

#3 Don’t hang luggage over your handlebars

Do you often go shopping by bike and then hang your heavy bags on your handlebars? Dangerous! You steer a lot more difficult and your bike is also less stable. Instead, purchase a transport bicycle, which comes standard with a front rack and luggage carrier. Or buy bicycle bags, bicycle baskets and a luggage carrier yourself.