Bicycle Accident Statistics in San Diego

Frequency of Bicycle Accidents

San Diego sees hundreds of bicycle accidents each year. According to the California Highway Patrol’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), which tracks vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian collisions, more than 700 bicycle accidents occur annually in San Diego County.

Here are some statistics:

• 4,876 Bicycle Crashes: Since 2018, there have been 4,876 reported bicycle crashes in San Diego County. 
• 4,388 Injuries: Around 90% of bicycle crashes result in injuries, with severe injuries making up about 20% of these cases. 
• 60 Fatalities: Approximately 1% of bicycle crashes are fatal. Since 2018, there have been 60 bike crash deaths in San Diego County.  
• Rush Hour: The highest number of bike crashes occur during afternoon rush hour between 3 and 6 p.m.

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Bike Crash Types

• Broadside Crashes: Broadside collisions make up 34% of all bike crashes. A broadside collision, or “T-bone” collision, occurs when the front of a car strikes the side of a bicycle. This usually happens at intersections or where cars are turning. Broadside collisions are often caused by drivers failing to yield to cyclists, not seeing them in their blind spots, or misjudging the cyclist’s speed or direction.
• Sideswipe Crashes: Sideswipes make up 13% of bike accidents. A sideswipe collision occurs when a vehicle passes too closely to a cyclist and hits them along the side. Unlike a broadside collision that hits the side of the bicycle head-on, a sideswipe involves the vehicle moving parallel to the bicycle. This type of collision can occur when vehicles attempt to pass cyclists too closely. 
• Rear-end Crashes: Rear-end collisions make up 8% of bike accidents. Rear-end collisions happen when drivers don’t see a cyclist and hit them from behind. Rear-end collisions are more likely when there is a disparity between the speeds of fast traveling vehicles and slower bikes.  
• Other Crashes: Other common crash types include head-on, hit objects, potholes, and more.  

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Leading Causes of Bicycle Accidents

• Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is a top cause of bicycle accidents in San Diego, often due to motorists using mobile devices, eating, or otherwise not paying full attention.
• Failure to Yield: Many accidents occur when drivers fail to yield the right of way to cyclists, especially when making turns at intersections or attempting to turn in front of a cyclist.
• Dooring Incidents: Dooring accidents happen when a car door opens suddenly into a cyclist’s path, causing a collision. Cyclists often have limited space to maneuver in congested urban areas, which increases this risk.
• Alcohol-Related Incidents: Impaired driving is a factor in a significant number of bicycle accidents.
• Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, inadequate facilities, and road construction can contribute to accidents.

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Hot Spots for Bicycle Accidents

• Downtown San Diego: Busy urban areas, particularly downtown, consistently report higher numbers of bicycle accidents. The dense traffic and frequent stop-and-go conditions can make the downtown area challenging for drivers and cyclists, especially near intersections.
• Coastal Areas: Pacific Beach, Mission Beach, Encinitas, Carlsbad, Oceanside, all of which attract tourists and recreational riders, are known hot spots for accidents. Cyclists often share paths with pedestrians, skateboarders, and other traffic, increasing the chance of collisions.
• Major Intersections: Certain intersections along high-traffic corridors, such as those on El Cajon Boulevard, University Avenue, and Rosecrans Street are notorious for bicycle-related crashes.

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How Can Cyclists Stay Safe?

• Wear a Helmet: Helmets reduce the risk of serious head injuries in a crash.
• Use Reflective Gear and Lights: For cyclists riding during low-light conditions, using bright lights and reflective clothing can help make them more visible to drivers.
• Stay in Bike Lanes: Whenever possible, use designated bike lanes. These lanes provide a safer space for cyclists, reducing the chances of an accident.
• Ride in a Group: Riding in a group makes you more visible to drivers. 
• Obey Traffic Laws: Cyclists should follow the same traffic laws as drivers, stopping at red lights and stop signs and yielding when required.
• Stay Alert: Avoid distractions like phones and headphones, which can impair awareness on the road.

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Seeking Justice After a Bicycle Accident

If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, the experienced attorneys at the Hulburt Law Firm are here to advocate for your rights. Visit the Hulburt Law Firm’s San Diego Bicycle Accident Attorney webpage for more information. We understand the emotional and physical toll that serious injuries can take and are dedicated to helping you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Remember: The Truth Demands Justice. If you’ve been in a bicycle accident in San Diego, contact us for a consultation to discuss your rights and options. We are here to support you every step of the way.

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Related Content

• San Diego Bicycle Accident Attorney
• Types of Bicycle Accidents in San Diego