Arkansas Bicycle Accident Statistics
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that three (3) people died in 2015 in Arkansas bicycle accidents. This is very surprising given the fact that the state does not have a bicycle helmet law. However, bicycle accidents can cause serious injuries that result in permanent disabilities. For this reason, the state’s Highway Safety Plan includes provisions for bicycle safety.
Steps to Promote Safe Bicycling in Arkansas
The 2017 Safety Plan published by the Highway Safety Office includes a Pedestrian/Bicyclist safety section. The plan calls for a bicycle and pedestrian safety education and awareness program to be developed during 2017. In addition, bicycle safety will be included in other injury prevention projects.
The Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department has a Bicycle Safety in Arkansas brochure available on its website under “publications.” The brochure discusses the four basic principles that help bicyclists avoid accidents:
- Always maintain control of your bicycle (i.e. never ride while under the influence of drugs or alcohol);
- Always ride with traffic on the right side of the road and be very careful at intersections and crossroads;
- Remain alert at all times and increase your visibility to motorists; and,
- Wear a helmet to protect your head in case of a crash.
In addition to examining each of the principles in detail and providing safety tips, the brochure also reviews general safety tips and rules that can help keep bicyclists safe. Topics covered include:
- Railroad tracks
- Crosswalks
- Traffic signals
- Riding on sidewalks
- Riding on paths
- Stopping for school buses
- Riding through work zones
- Traffic signs
- What to do in case of a crash
You can obtain additional information about safety and bicycle accidents in Arkansas from the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department State Bicycle/Pedestrian Coordinator (501-569-2020) and the State Bicycle Advocacy Group (Bike/Walk Arkansas www. bikewalkAR.org).
In addition, you can check with your local government office to inquire about bicycle safety programs offered by your city or county offices.