50 percent more bicycle accidents in ten years
The number of bicycle accidents in Switzerland has risen by 50 percent in the last ten years. 84 percent of accidents are self-inflicted, often caused by distraction and lack of attention. The most common distraction factors are headphones and smartphones. Suva, which is the only insurance company that also takes care of prevention and rehabilitation, focuses its prevention measures on raising awareness of the dangers and motivating cyclists to take personal responsibility: anticipatory riding, full concentration in road traffic, good visibility and pedaling without headphones help to prevent accidents.
Evaluations by the Swiss Accident Insurance Accident Statistics Unit (SSUV) show that road traffic accidents involving bicycles have increased by 50 percent in the last ten years. There were 26,100 bicycle accidents on Swiss roads between 2018 and 2022, compared to around 17,400 accidents between 2008 and 2012. As a general rule, the frequency of accidents increases the more people are involved in an activity or the longer it takes place. Various factors play a role here, such as the weather, especially mild winters, changes in leisure behavior or the increased use of bicycles as a means of transport.
Headphones - the most important distraction factor
According to the surveys conducted in 2023 on distraction in road traffic among cyclists and e-bikers (Niemann and Hertach), a fifth of all cyclists were distracted. Among 15 to 29-year-olds, wearing headphones is the most important distraction factor. The 30 to 44-year-olds are equally distracted by wearing headphones and using their smartphones while cycling. The distraction rate decreases with increasing age. According to the study, lack of attention is one of the main risk factors for cycling accidents. "Anyone who doesn't have their head in the game when cycling in road traffic, is distracted or under time pressure, increases the risk of accidents through their own behavior," says Andrea Lenz, Head of Cycle Prevention at Suva.
Accidents due to lack of attention
Since four out of five bicycle accidents (84 percent) are accidents involving the rider themselves, the following applies: if you stay alert and ride with foresight, you reduce your risk of having an accident. "While cycling, it's important to focus on what's happening on the road so that you always have an overview," says Andrea Lenz. "Our prevention measures are aimed at reacting correctly to dangers on the road, for example through appropriate speed, clear hand signals and good visibility. To prevent accidents, interactions such as eye contact between road users are also important and positive."
Safe on the road by bike
In spring, bicycles are a popular means of transportation and there are more and less experienced cyclists on the roads again. Suva has several tips on how to avoid cycling accidents:
- Keep your attention: No distractions. Keep your smartphone and headphones switched off in your bag while cycling and focus on the road.
- Drive with foresight to recognize dangers early on.
- Always keep both hands on the handlebars.
- Look for eye contact between road users.
- Increase visibility: Switch on your bike light, wear bright or reflective clothing (fluorescent vest) and attach reflectors to your bike.
Source: Suva
