Report Shows Bicycle Injuries in US are Becoming More Severe
A new report shows that bicycle injuries in the country are becoming much more severe, and require much longer hospitalization time. The study also shows that in spite of efforts, helmet use has not increased significantly.
The study was conducted on 329 bicycle accident injuries admitted to the Rocky Mountain Regional Trauma Center at Denver Health Medical Center during a 10-year period.
- The findings showed that chest injury rates in bicycle accidents have increased by about 15 percent.
- Rates of abdominal injuries have increased three-fold over the past 5 years.
- Helmet use has not increased significantly, with the result that 1/3 of the subjects suffered from a head injury.
In New Jersey, we have been very enthusiastic about promoting bicycling. Our state has seen a sharp increase in bicyclist numbers, as more people choose to bike to avoid the notorious street congestion.
Bicycling has far too many advantages to list. However, if we are going to promote bicycling as a way of life and more popular mode of transportation, we need to be creating a safe environment for these bikers. For starters, we need more bike lanes. We also need stronger awareness campaigns promoting helmet use, and heavier fines for those who choose to avoid wearing helmets. We also need to focus education and awareness campaigns on the motorists who are often responsible for these bicycle accidents. Laws should be tougher on motorists who violate bicyclist rights.
Scott Grossman is a New Jersey bicycle accident lawyer, representing injured victims of bicycle accidents in Monmouth, Bergen, Ocean and Passaic Counties, and across New Jersey.
