More people are driving distracted today than ever because of the use of cell phones. This makes the roadways particularly dangerous for cyclists. The most dangerous intersections in San Diego (based on number of accidents) do not have bike lanes. As such, many neighborhoods in San Diego (such as North Park and Encinitas) are adding new bike lanes to improve cyclist safety.
However, not all bike lane designs are as effective as others. Fully colored bike lanes are more effective than simply re-striping, and painting bike lanes is relatively inexpensive. Bike lanes of a different color reduce bicycle accidents by providing a clearer definition between bike lanes and car lanes.
Paint, however, will not stop a collision. Protected bike lanes separated from traffic by grade separations or other physical barriers are the safest of all – not only for cyclists, but for everyone on the road.
An extensive, 13-year study showed a dramatic decrease in road fatalities for all road users on streets which had protected bike lanes. This means that protected bike lanes not only keep cyclists safer, but they also keep everyone on the road (such as drivers and pedestrians) safer as well. Protected bike lanes slow car traffic speeds, which leads to fewer fatalities and better road-safety outcomes for all users.
San Diego is a Vision Zero city, which means that it has committed to eliminating traffic deaths and serious accidents by 2025. Installing protected bike lanes at major intersections would be a major step towards accomplishing this goal. 75% of all fatal or severe accidents in San Diego occur at or near intersections. The most dangerous intersections in San Diego, and those in most immediate need of protected bike lanes, are those which:
Protected bike lanes have other benefits in addition to road safety. The Federal Highway Administration Bicycle and Pedestrian program evaluated this issue and concluded that separated bike lanes can:
As such, San Diego can reduce traffic accidents and improve the overall flow of traffic by installing protected bike lanes at major intersections as part of its Vision Zero Strategic Plan.
Riding your bike is a great way to get exercise, save money, avoid traffic and parking delays, and protect the environment. Following these tips will help you stay safe while cycling:
Bicycle riders must obey the same rules as cars, including stopping at stop signs and red lights. In addition, there are cyclist-specific laws designed to keep cyclists safe. San Diego’s bicycle laws include:
Bicycle accidents involving cars are often severe and include brain and spine injuries. Other common bike accident injuries include broken bones, injuries to the face and eyes, internal organ damage and lacerations. Such injuries can be lasting and permanent and affect every aspect of a person’s life.
Bicycle accidents raise technical legal issues which require specific knowledge of both the law and the medical issues involved. If you were injured in a bicycle accident through no fault of your own, it is best to contact an experienced bicycle accident lawyer without delay in order to best preserve your legal rights.
City of San Diego, Vision Zero
City of San Diego, Vision Zero Strategic Plan, Page 10
U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, Bicycle and Pedestrian Program, Separated Bike Lane Planning and Design Guide
California Legislative Information, California Vehicle Code §21201
California Legislative Information, California Vehicle Code §21212
California Legislative Information, California Vehicle Code §21200.5
California Legislative Information, California Vehicle Code §21650
California Legislative Information, California Vehicle Code §21202
California Legislative Information, California Vehicle Code §21208
California Legislative Information, California Vehicle Code §21211
California Legislative Information, California Vehicle Code §21960
San Diego Municipal Code, Article 4: Miscellaneous Driving Rules, Division 0: §84.06(b)
California Legislative Information, California Vehicle Code §22108
California Legislative Information, California Vehicle Code §22111
California Legislative Information, California Vehicle Code §27400
California Legislative Information, California Vehicle Code §21205
California Legislative Information, California Vehicle Code §21950
California Legislative Information, California Vehicle Code §21204
California Legislative Information, California Assembly Bill No. 1096
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