There are many reasons why you might ride a bike in Louisiana. You may find it to be good exercise or a non-polluting form of transportation. You may just think it is fun. Whatever your reasons, however, it is nevertheless true that you take a risk in riding your bicycle on Louisiana roads. The Advocate cites data in a report from last year indicating that the statewide rate of deaths from bicycle accidents is the second-highest in the nation. Only Florida saw more bicycle fatalities, according to the study.
Three years previously, Louisiana ranked third behind Florida and Delaware in bicycle deaths. The subsequent increase has state and local government officials, as well as bicyclists, contemplating the cause of the problem. The following are some of the most prominent theories.
1. Lack of infrastructure
The transportation infrastructure that exists in many areas of the state is designed for automobiles, with little in the way of sidewalks or safety measures for cyclists or pedestrians. Baton Rouge is a specific community where the Federal Highway Administration has identified a need for improvement in this regard. Government agencies have responded with funding for the necessary projects.
2. Warm weather
Statistics indicate that the six states with the most bicycle deaths have climates that are predominantly warm for most of the year. It is not entirely clear what the connection may be, but warm weather may entice more people to ride bicycles more often, increasing the risks of accidents.
3. Attitude of drivers
Some bicyclists report feeling that motorists are reluctant to share the road. New Orleans has a documented problem with drivers throwing objects or harassing bicyclists despite such malicious actions being illegal under state law.
The information in this article is not intended as legal advice but provided for educational purposes only.
If you’ve been in a bike accident in the Baton Rouge area, contact our office today.
