Traffic - Number of cyclists killed in accidents in 2023 doubled
In Thuringia, twelve cyclists lost their lives in traffic accidents last year. The number of cyclists killed has therefore more than doubled in comparison to 2022, as stated in a response from the Infrastructure Ministry in answer to a query from Green Party state legislator Laura Wahl. There were 1,276 cycling injuries in 2023. Not infrequently, they caused the accidents themselves.
Of the 1,718 traffic accidents involving cyclists recorded by the police last year, 983 of these were reportedly self-inflicted, according to the response. This accounted for over 57% of the total. Causes included inappropriate speed, driving under the influence of alcohol, incorrect turning maneuvers, and failure to yield.
Safety on the roads as a goal
While fewer people overall were involved in accidents on Thuringian roads, this trend does not apply to cyclists and cyclists, said Green Party transportation expert Wahl, expressing regret. It is declared intent to double the number of cyclists in Thuringia by 2030. The logical consequence is therefore to make cycling safer: "For this, we need above all a forgiving infrastructure and improvements to existing state measures."
For instance, bypasses alone do not automatically improve traffic safety within urban areas, as Wahl pointed out. Measures like traffic calming should be evaluated as well. It is also essential to have appropriate structures in administrations for a real cycling infrastructure expansion campaign. The Greens are advocating for the establishment of cycling coordinator positions at the county level, with support from the state.
From the Building and Transport Authority, 32 cycling paths are planned or being implemented on federal highways and 45 on state highways in the state this year.
In response to the significant increase in traffic accidents involving cyclists in Thuringia, the Green Party has proposed the establishment of cycling coordinator positions at the county level with state support. Last year, 1,718 traffic accidents involving cyclists were reported, with 983 of them self-inflicted, accounting for over 57% of the total. Regrettably, despite a decrease in accidents for other road users, cyclists and bicyclists continue to be disproportionately affected, as evidenced by the 12 fatal traffic accidents and 1,276 cycling injuries in 2023.
