Declining road safety for cyclists: A look at the ADAC Mobility Index 2024

Cyclists live dangerously - this is not only reflected in the accident statistics, but also in everyday life. They often ride on inadequate infrastructure and are often antagonized in the process. A shocking example of this is the case in Paris, where a cyclist was deliberately run over in the summer. This tragedy made headlines across Europe and highlighted the problem of hate and aggression in road traffic. On November 15, two cyclists died in one day in Berlin: A 17-year-old who was hit by a car in Pankow and a 63-year-old who had been cycling in Wittenau two weeks earlier.

The ADAC Mobility Index 2024 confirms the difficult situation for cyclists: Despite growing numbers of bicycle users, cycling infrastructure is lagging behind in many places. In many cities, cycle paths are patchy, narrow or shared with car traffic, which has a massive impact on safety. In urban areas in particular, there are increasing conflicts between motorists and cyclists, which are exacerbated by narrow lanes and a lack of separate cycle paths.

The accident figures are alarming: after the pandemic, the number of accidents involving personal injury has risen, and cyclists are particularly affected. The mobility index shows that the road safety score has fallen to 107 - a step backwards in an area that had long shown positive developments. The ADAC is therefore urgently calling for the expansion of safe and independent cycle paths in order to increase safety and confidence for cyclists.

Social acceptance of cycling must also be improved so that cyclists feel safe and welcome. The tragic incidents in Paris and Berlin also show that the mobility transition must not only take place on the roads, but also in people's minds.