Citation

Missoni E, Bogovic I, Visnjic V. Promet 2004; 16(1): 1-4.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, Faculty of Traffic and Transport Sciences, University of Zagreb)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

In almost all of the developed countries of the world, cycling is emphasized as an activity that improves health and that contributes to the protection of the environment. However, when riding a bicycle there is a possibility of colliding with other vehicles. This article reports on a study of cyclists' injuries in traffic. The authors analyzed cyclist accidents between January 1996 and December 1999 in Croatia, focusing on injured cyclists. In 1996, in road traffic, there were 1,218 cyclist accidents in which 912 (74.9%) of the cyclists were injured. In 1997, there were 1,147 incidents and accidents, with 854 (74.5%) injured persons. In 1998, there were 1,167 accidents, with 887 (76.0%) injured. In the last study in 1999, the total number of cyclist accidents was 1,230 and the number of injured cyclists was 924 (75.1%). The authors conclude by recommending measures and procedures that could substantially reduce the traffic accidents and incidents which involve cyclists. These recommendations include: an ergonomic approach to planning and organizing of road traffic; education and maintaining of traffic awareness; medical checks, particularly seeking the functional capabilities of drivers; encouraging further research; making sure that cyclists keep their bicycles properly maintained; helmet use; and introduction in primary education to road traffic regulations and rules.