Possible Causes of Cyclist Crashes Are Focus of MetroPlan Orlando Research

Posted on: September 10, 2021 in Safety

Direction, intersections, and speed. Those factors stand out in data on motorist crashes with bicyclists in Central Florida.

MetroPlan Orlando recently completed research on factors most likely to contribute to such crashes, using regional streets with different cycling conditions.

Research results are contained in a new white paper on our website, Bicycling Facilities, Crash Types, and Bicyclist Risk. The research report executive summary contains information on the research methods, a recap of results, and  several safety recommendations — for bicyclists and motorists — to avoid crashes. Read them here.

Bicyclist Crash Types and Risk – Executive Summary – July 2021

Mighk Wilson, senior planner and project manager at MetroPlan Orlando previews the research report in this video:

Over the years, we’ve collected detailed data on crashes involving bicyclists. Improved technology has allowed us to get more accurate bicyclist counts. The combination of these two data sources greatly increases our ability to understand relative risks of various bicycling environments and bicyclist behaviors. Read about our efforts here.

A Look at the Findings

Among the key research findings:

• Direction: Bicyclists going against (facing) the flow of normal vehicle movement – on sidepaths, sidewalks, bike lands or travel lanes – are 5 times more likely to be involved in a crash.
• Intersections: Since 95% of urban and suburban bicycle crashes involve turning and crossing conflicts at intersections and driveways, the frequency of those conflict points is a key contributor.
• Speed: It is generally acknowledged that motorists’ speed can contribute to crashes of all kinds. The research showed that cyclists’ speed can also be a factor. Bicyclists traveling on sidepaths, sidewalks, and bike lanes travel slower than those using regular travel lanes. Slower cyclists need less time and distance to stop when a motorist violates the cyclist’s right-of-way.

For an in-depth analysis of the research data and findings, read the full report here:

Bicyclist Crash Types and Risk White Paper – July 2021

Find out more about what MetroPlan Orlando is doing to promote all kinds of transportation safety throughout our region on our website here.

For more information, please contact Mr. Mighk Wilson at Mighk.Wilson@MetroPlanOrlando.gov.