California Bicycle Accident Statistics
California had the second highest number of bicycle fatalities in 2015 according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). During 2015, 129 individuals lost their lives in California bicycle crashes. Bicycle accident fatalities accounted for 4.1 percent of the total traffic fatalities for that year. Thousands more are injured each year in bicycle crashes.
California’s Initiatives to Make Bicyclists Safe
While California does not have a universal bicycle helmet for all riders, it does have a law that requires all riders under 18 years of age to wear a bicycle helmet. There are also several programs that are aimed at making bicycling safe within the entire state.
CalTrans has several programs for bicycle and pedestrian safety. The goals are to develop programs that improve safety for bicyclists and pedestrians, participate in research, and provide support for safety and mobility modes.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) also encourages bicycle and pedestrian safety. With a grant provided by the OTS, the CHP has an enhanced awareness, education, and enforcement campaign aimed at keeping pedestrians and bicyclists safe. You can host a local safety event in your area by contacting your local CHP office.
The Community Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Training (CPBST) program provides training for local residents and safety advocates to help educate them with the goal of making communities safer for pedestrians and bicyclists. The program is a joint effort between Cal Walks and UC Berkeley SafeTREC.
Safe Moves helps educate students about traffic safety. Children have a high risk of bicycle accidents. The programs offered include Safe Routes to School, Safe Moves City, and Walking & Biking Programs. Students, teachers, and parents can participate in the programs and learn more about how to keep children safe as they walk and bike to and from school and other activities.