Cycling infrastructure reduces deaths for all road users

Without question, the designation of public funds for cycling infrastructure is an intense issue with advocates and passion on both sides of the issue. Living in a winter city means the debate is perhaps more impassioned as people argue that too few people cycle in the winter months to make it worthwhile. But what if adding cycling infrastructure reduces deaths for all road users from pedestrians to motorists? Could we call it traffic death prevention infrastructure and get increased support?

Researchers Marshall and Ferenchak (2019) looked at 12 large US cities and investigated traffic related deaths and severe injuries. The popular belief is that cities with more cyclists have few injuries and deaths because there is safety in numbers. However, this research showed that was not the case.

Rather than it being the number of cyclists, it was the actual cycling infrastructure that resulted  in traffic calming and lower speeds. Of particular relevance were protected and separated bike lanes. These measures resulted in, not just fewer cyclist fatalities but also reduced serious injuries for other road users including both pedestrians and drivers.

One of the factors that improved safety that surprised me was more intersections. This is interesting because, as a cyclist, it’s the intersections that I try to avoid the most. I avoid them for two reasons, the first is, without question, the risk around an intersection. It’s too easy to get pushed by an impatient or inattentive driver. But, my second reason is about how much longer it takes to get started again after every intersection rather than getting to keep my momentum going. Having said that, I don’t have access to many intersections with good cycling infrastructure so perhaps my views would change if I did.

All of this leads me to wonder if cyclists need to focus on advocating for safety streets for everyone. Would this help to sway public opinion?