kglonews.com – A recent study has identified Louisiana as one of the riskiest states for bicyclists in the country. Conducted by Sweeney Merrigan Law LLP, the study analyzed fatal cyclist incidents across states using data from the NHTSA’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System, comparing these numbers relative to population size. The study focused on data from 2021.
In Louisiana, 34 cyclists lost their lives in 2021, averaging 0.74 fatalities per 100,000 residents. Despite its extensive network of scenic routes and trails along the Mississippi River, the state has seen significant challenges for cyclist safety.
Managing Partner J. Tucker Merrigan of Sweeney Merrigan Law LLP highlighted a 37% increase in bike trips across the U.S. from 2019 to 2022, emphasizing a growing presence of cyclists on the roads nationwide. Florida, topping the list, was identified as the most perilous state for cyclists with 197 fatalities in a single year, just surpassing Louisiana’s ranking.
In 2021, cyclists in Florida accounted for a startling 5.3% of all traffic fatalities in the state, with Jacksonville identified as the most dangerous city for cyclists.
Mississippi ranked fourth on the list, with 16 bicycle fatalities.
The study also revealed that 85% of fatal cycling crashes in the United States occur in urban areas.