Nearly half of cyclists' injuries have nothing to do with cars
It is no secret that the relationship between cyclists and motorists across the nation has appeared to deteriorate in recent years.
Cycling groups have often expressed a concern for the safety of road users on two wheels, which was recognised by state governments with the introduction of the one-metre rule.
The rule, which says motorists must leave at least one metre between their vehicles and cyclists when passing, has now been implemented in all states.
Yet new research from Monash University suggests nearly half of all cyclists’ injuries have nothing to do with motorised vehicles at all.
From its study sample from two Melbourne hospitals, single-bicycle crashes accounted for 48 per cent of bicycle crashes on the road and often involve “experienced cyclists”, the research revealed.
Thirty seven per cent of injuries from single-bicycle crashes was down to loss-of-control.
Crashes involving tram tracks were responsible for 19 per cent of single-bicycle crashes, while 13 per cent were down to hitting potholes or other objects.
"Loss-of-control events commonly occurred due to sudden braking to avoid another vehicle or cyclist, losing control on a dry descent or losing control in wet/slippery conditions,” the study said.
Dr Ben Beck, the lead contributor to the study, told Cycling Tips single-bicycle crashes appeared to be a growing problem.
“We’ve had a look at these data more broadly and single-bicycle crashes are actually quite a big problem and it’s a growing problem,” he said.
Dr Beck suggested popular cycle routes needed to be made more user-friendly to reduce injuries for cyclists.
Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, download the Yahoo News app from iTunes or Google Play and stay up to date with the latest news with Yahoo’s daily newsletter. Sign up here.
