Cyclists in Winterbach: Danger due to missing cycle paths alerted!

Cyclists in Winterbach: Danger due to missing cycle paths alerted!

Cyclists in Winterbach are increasingly frustrated by the lack of cycle paths in the region. Dangerous situations arise particularly on country roads, where cars drive past at speeds of up to 100 km/h. Many cyclists, even experienced ones, often feel like they are an obstacle to traffic on the roads or are simply overlooked. The municipality of Winterbach has developed a mobility concept to improve the traffic situation, but implementation is taking a long time, which does not alleviate the concerns of cyclists. This reports ZVW.

The problem is not just limited to Winterbach. A current study by insurers' accident research (UDV) shows that there is a high risk for cyclists in German-speaking countries (DACH). Around two thirds of all serious bicycle accidents occur at intersections, which are considered critical points in road traffic due to confusing situations. A lack of structural measures such as safe crossings or traffic lights further exacerbate the risks. High speeds of motorized traffic are another major problem. On country roads, where there are often no separate cycle paths, cyclists are completely at the mercy of car traffic. This clarifies Focus Mobility.

Accident statistics show alarming figures

The safety situation for cyclists on German country roads is alarming. In 2023, there were 189 cyclists killed and 2,996 seriously injured on these roads. These numbers represent around 42 percent of all cyclists killed and 21 percent of all seriously injured cyclists in Germany. The data has stagnated at a high level since 2018, with the COVID-19 pandemic causing a temporary decline in 2020 and 2022. The UDV carried out a comprehensive study to analyze the risk of accidents for cyclists on country roads, with junctions such as intersections in particular being identified as particularly accident-prone. Loud UDV These accidents contribute to around 68 percent of serious cycling accidents.

To improve safety, the UDV proposes several measures: safe crossing options for cyclists, the removal of visual obstructions through regular green maintenance and the reduction of the maximum permissible speed at intersections that are difficult to see. In addition, visibility should be improved and existing cycle paths should be expanded. The aim is to raise awareness among both drivers and cyclists through targeted campaigns and also to promote driver assistance systems in motor vehicles in order to avoid collisions with cyclists.

Given the growing number of cyclists and the associated dangers, it is urgent that those responsible in Winterbach and beyond act quickly and efficiently to ensure safety for all road users.