Road accident statistics: positive trend, except for e-bikes

Since 1992, the Traffic accident figures recorded and published every six months. In the first half of 2018, 1726 people were seriously injured (2017: 1844 people) and 100 people were killed (2017: 113 killed). This continues the long-term decreasing trend, as reported by the Federal Roads Office (Astra) writes. The number of accidents with personal injury is also falling.

According to the statistics, the greatest decrease in fatalities compared to the previous year was observed among cyclists - especially in the 30 to 59 age group - and pedestrians. A decrease could be observed especially among pedestrians over 60 years of age. Compared to the previous year, there was a slight increase in the number of motorcyclists killed, which mainly affected the 50-69 age group. However, compared to the five-year average, the numbers decreased, according to Astra.

Further increase in the number of accidents involving e-bikes

While the number of serious injuries decreased for a large proportion of road users, the number of e-bike riders increased from 103 to 138, which particularly affected the age group over 40. The severely injured 40 to 49 year olds had more accidents on fast e-bikes, while the over 50 year olds had more accidents on slow e-bikes, as the statistics show.

It is striking that many e-bike and motorcycle riders were killed or seriously injured in accidents in April 2018. According to Astra, the reason for this is probably the weather: After a wintry, wet March, it was early summer warm and dry in April, which attracted many two-wheeler riders onto the road.

The half-yearly statistics on road traffic accidents are based on the Astra road accident register. This register records accidents on public roads or squares involving at least one motorized or non-motorized vehicle or vehicle-like device. The results of the half-year statistics are provisional. The definitive figures will be published in spring 2019.