Cycling Will Kill You, But Not Cycling Will Kill You More

An interesting story in Gristmill. You are 3 times more likely to be killed on a bike than in a car. However, on a per-mile basis walking from the building to your car is even more dangerous and using public transit is 10 times safer than a car. If only the safety-conscious drivers of reinforced SUVs knew, the auto salesman in the showroom would be upselling them on a bus pass instead.

But, the article continues, the risk of death by violent collision is only one way of dying. Noncyclists are 40 percent more likely to die from a heart attack from lack of exercise. So cycling significantly reduces risk of death. On average, for every year of life lost in accidents, 20 years are gained in extra longevity.

Not even counting the others you take with you. If you die in a car crash, the odds are you are taking other people with you. If you die in a bicycle crash, you are likely the only casualty. The car or truck that hit you (or more likely some other inanimate object) may need a new coat of paint, but its occupant is likely unhurt.

Tags: Transportation Transportation Planning Cycling

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