Cyclist injured in Neustrelitz: accident caused by a wrong turn!

Cyclist injured in Neustrelitz: accident caused by a wrong turn!

There was a traffic accident in Neustrelitz on Monday evening around 8:20 p.m. in which a 21-year-old cyclist was slightly injured. The incident occurred on Strelitzer Straße, near the Kaufland district, and was caused by the young cyclist making an incorrect turn from the local roundabout. Those involved in the accident are a German driver, 64 years old, and the injured cyclist, who received medical care in Neustrelitz Hospital after the accident. The material damage amounts to around 100 euros, although the physical well-being of those involved is the priority.

But safety for cyclists is not only a big issue in Neustrelitz. Within a very short period of time there were two serious accidents involving cyclists in the Neustrelitz area. According to a report on presseportal.de, an 87-year-old driver was partially fatal when he ran over a cyclist on the road between Blankensee and Rödlin. The cyclist had to be taken to a hospital with serious injuries, while the driver was in shock. Another case shows how precarious the situation in road traffic can be: A 54-year-old driver was no longer able to brake in time for a cyclist who suddenly stepped off the sidewalk onto the street, which led to the cyclist being seriously injured.

Safety situation for cyclists

A current study by insurers' accident research (UDV) sheds light on the alarming safety situation for cyclists on German country roads. On average there are 4 deaths and 58 seriously injured cyclists every week. Unfortunately, accidents on this terrain have increased by almost 30 percent compared to ten years ago. One aspect that makes the situation even more difficult is the fact that cyclists are often overlooked on country roads. The data shows that 41 percent of accidents are caused by collisions with cars, with drivers responsible for the accident in 59 percent of cases.

Intersections are particularly problematic, where 68 percent of serious bicycle accidents occur. The study shows that there is always a lack of safety measures that would enable cyclists to ride carefree and safely. For example, at every second accident intersection, cars are allowed to drive at speeds of over 70 km/h. In order to reduce such dangerous situations, the UDV calls for targeted measures, including the creation of safe crossings and speed limits at intersections with poor visibility. In addition, drivers should always expect cyclists and slow down when visibility is poor.

The following applies to all cycling enthusiasts: respect and consideration are required! Especially on country roads with little traffic. The study emphasizes that reflective clothing and the use of lights can significantly reduce the risk. Cyclists should avoid busy roads if possible and ride on safe cycle paths. A call was also made to the federal and state governments to improve cycling infrastructure.

The still uncertain traffic situation is a problem that affects cities and communities throughout Germany. There seems to be an urgent need not only to take structural measures, but also to raise awareness of the safety of cyclists on the road. So stay careful and alert – both when driving and cycling!