"When there are a lot of bicyclists on the road, according to this theory (Safety in Numbers), drivers take notice. They become more attentive, slow down, pass more cautiously, double-check their blind spots, expect the unexpected. They sense that the road has become a more complicated place, and adjust their behavior accordingly. As a result, the road becomes safer, presumably for everyone." says researcher Peter Jacobsen.
Friday, October 15, 2010
As More People Ride Bicycles, Safety Improves
Although it would seem that as more people are out riding their bikes, there would be more bicycling accidents. But research is showing that as ridership increases, the accident rate is not changing.
"When there are a lot of bicyclists on the road, according to this theory (Safety in Numbers), drivers take notice. They become more attentive, slow down, pass more cautiously, double-check their blind spots, expect the unexpected. They sense that the road has become a more complicated place, and adjust their behavior accordingly. As a result, the road becomes safer, presumably for everyone." says researcher Peter Jacobsen.
"When there are a lot of bicyclists on the road, according to this theory (Safety in Numbers), drivers take notice. They become more attentive, slow down, pass more cautiously, double-check their blind spots, expect the unexpected. They sense that the road has become a more complicated place, and adjust their behavior accordingly. As a result, the road becomes safer, presumably for everyone." says researcher Peter Jacobsen.