A new study reveals that California has the fourth-highest rate of hit-and-run cyclist deaths in the United States.
A new study by Arizona-based Bicycle Accident Lawyers Group analyzed hit-and-run pedalcyclist fatality data using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) across all 50 U.S. states between 2019 and 2023. Using official population estimates and federal safety data, researchers calculated the average number of fatal hit-and-run cyclist crashes per million residents to identify where cyclists face the greatest risk on American roads.
California ranks fourth, with 1.02 cyclist deaths per million residents, 96% higher than the national average of 0.52. With a population of 39,249,559, the Golden State recorded an average of 40 fatalities annually from 2019 to 2023. The highest total occurred in 2023 with 47 deaths, while the lowest was reported in 2020 with 37.
Looking at the study, a spokesperson for Bicycle Accident Lawyers Group commented:
“Cyclists are among the most vulnerable road users, and when drivers flee the scene, the results are often catastrophic. The findings show that states like California experience hit-and-run cyclist deaths far above the national average.
“These numbers highlight the urgent need for stronger accountability, public awareness campaigns, and safer infrastructure to protect cyclists and prevent needless loss of life.”
Table for Extended Results:
The study was conducted by Bicycle Accident Lawyers Group, an Arizona-based firm devoted to representing injured cyclists. From bike-vs-vehicle collisions to spinal injuries, hit-and-runs, and product defects, their cyclist-led team handles coast-to-coast cases and fights for full compensation and justice on behalf of riders.
https://bicycleaccidentlawyers.com/
Methodology
The research analyzed hit-and-run pedalcyclist fatality data using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) across all 50 U.S. states between 2019 and 2023. Using official population estimates and federal safety data, researchers calculated the average number of fatal hit-and-run cyclist crashes per million residents to identify where cyclists face the greatest risk on American roads.
Data Sources:
Bicycle Crash Data → https://cdan.dot.gov/query
Research Dataset → https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/105whdx4hOWMLg1BmawQng5z5rurrVxC6OpmjKoFBMSQ/edit?gid=0#gid=0
Research by → https://bicycleaccidentlawyers.com/
