Probability of Being Injured in a Bicycle Accident (Annual)

Cycling injuries are common among regular riders. According to data from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, approximately 425,000 emergency department visits per year in the US are related to bicycle accidents. For regular cyclists, the annual probability of an injury requiring emergency treatment is approximately 1 in 333.

The most common injuries include fractures (especially collarbone and wrist), concussions and traumatic brain injuries, road rash, and sprains. Head injuries account for about 60% of cycling deaths and 75% of hospitalizations. Motor vehicle collisions cause the most serious injuries, but single-bicycle crashes (hitting potholes, losing control) are actually more common.

Helmet use is the single most effective protective measure, reducing head injury risk by approximately 50%. Other safety measures include using front and rear lights (required by law in many states after dark), wearing bright or reflective clothing, riding with traffic, signaling turns, maintaining your bike (especially brakes and tires), and choosing routes with bike infrastructure when possible.