For many bicyclists, riding on the street feels dangerous. Even if they’re riding with the traffic, as they should be, they often worry about being sideswiped or hit by a vehicle coming up behind them. This concern naturally leads many cyclists to think it’s safer to ride on the sidewalk.
Similarly, many cyclists originally learned to ride on the sidewalk as children. They may assume this is an acceptable practice regardless of their age and genuinely believe it’s the safer option. So why do studies show the opposite—that riding a bike on the sidewalk can actually increase the likelihood of an accident?
It’s not what drivers expect
The crux of the problem is that drivers expect cyclists to be in the traffic lane, not on the sidewalk. Many collisions occur when drivers are turning and they simply don’t see the cyclist at all.
For example, if a driver is preparing to turn left, they’re primarily focused on watching oncoming traffic to find a gap. While they may briefly glance at the sidewalk or the driveway they’re turning into, they’re usually just checking for pedestrians. If they don’t see anyone walking, they assume it’s safe to turn.
However, a cyclist on the sidewalk is moving much faster than a pedestrian. A driver may glance at the sidewalk, determine it’s clear, and start their turn—only to collide with a cyclist who suddenly rides into the space. The speed difference and unexpected presence of the cyclist create a dangerous scenario for both parties.
Know your options after an accident
No matter where cyclists ride, there’s always a risk of motor vehicle collisions. Those who have been struck and injured due to driver negligence should be aware of their legal rights and how to seek financial compensation.