• 28
  • November
    2011

Saturday, November 19th, riders of all ages, abilities and walks of life rode up to 111 miles of the scenic areas of Tucson as part of the city's University of Arizona Medical Center El Tour festivities, raising over $1.6 million for several charities. The 2011 El Tour marked the 29th annual event organized by Arizona's Perimeter Bicycling Association of America and attracted over 9,000 cyclists.

The cycling event promotes wellness as well as raises awareness of bicycle safety and the prevention of Tucson bicycle accidents. Cycling and cyclists present a unique safety challenge on our nation's roadways. On average, two pedal cyclist fatalities occur each day. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 600 pedal cyclists were killed and another 51,000 were injured in 2009. This number represents about 2 percent of all traffic fatalities in the nation that year. The National Safety Council reports that cycling-related injuries and deaths cost the public about $4 billion dollars annually.

Tucson Bicycle Safety, Cycling Injuries and Crash Prevention

Since bicycles don't have the same protective framing as motor vehicles, cyclists and their passengers are at risk for more than just simple scrapes and cuts. Broken bones, traumatic brain injury, and even death are all possible risks for cyclists who share the roadways with cars and other larger vehicles.

For cyclists, safety should be the first order of business. The Grand Canyon State has a number of laws that are cyclist-specific. Bicycles must obey the same traffic laws as motor vehicles regarding impairments, distractions, yielding to pedestrians, and maintaining bikes with appropriate brakes and headlights.

Cyclists and their passengers should always wear safety gear, including helmets, in order to prevent serious injury if involved in a bike accident. While Arizona does not require helmet use by adults, Tucson requires helmet use by cyclists under the age of 18. Before each ride, cyclists should check their bikes, including brakes and tires. Cyclists should also wear brightly colored clothing, which helps make them more visible to motorists.

In 2008, several El Tour cyclists were injured and one was left in a coma for 40 days after a motorist failed to yield the right of way. Practicing bike safety is just one important way to have safer, more enjoyable rides. Good safety habits are the key to reducing crashes and serious injuries.

Source: KVOA.com, "El Tour de Tucson raises money for local charities and businesses," 21 November 2011