E-bike accident in Sternberg: 64-year-old dies after crashing into a tree

E-bike accident in Sternberg: 64-year-old dies after crashing into a tree

A tragic accident occurred on Thursday around 5 p.m. in Sternberg, in which a 64-year-old electric cyclist lost his life. The man left the bike path at high speed and crashed his e-bike into a tree on the popular Sternberg lake promenade. Rescue workers were immediately alerted, but were unable to do anything for the cyclist - he died at the scene of the accident Uckermark courier reported.

The circumstances that led to this tragic moment are still unclear. What is certain is that the cyclist was not wearing a helmet, which, according to accident statistics in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, entails a significantly higher risk. This accident represents the second traffic fatality in October and is the 71st accident fatality this year.

Review of road safety

Unfortunately, this incident fits into an alarming trend: in 2024, a total of 93 fatalities in traffic accidents were documented in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, the highest number in years. For comparison, 57 people had an accident in 2023, while there were 83 in 2022 and 68 in 2021. It's not just e-bike riders who are affected: in mid-October, a 45-year-old driver died due to an accident in which a pensioner crossed into the oncoming lane. Tragically, three children were also seriously injured.

The police warn about the main causes of accidents, which include distracted driving and accidents involving wildlife. There was also another fatal incident in September when a motorcyclist collided on a country road with a deer that had previously been hit by an oncoming car.

The dangers of riding an e-bike

E-bikes have been very popular in recent years, but their increasing popularity also comes with a dark side. Again NDR reports, the number of e-bike thefts in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania rose to a record of more than 800 cases in 2023, causing total damage of 2.6 million euros. Many e-bikes disappeared, especially in the summer months of July to September.

The police point out that the eastern parts of the country in particular, such as the island of Usedom, are considered hotspots. The most frequently mentioned tips for preventing theft include using a high-quality lock and choosing safe storage locations.

Statistics and incidents at a glance

• 2023 starben bei Pedelec-Unfällen 188 Personen, ein Anstieg im Vergleich zu 39 Opfern im Jahr 2014.
• Die Zahl der verunglückten Pedelec-Nutzer ist von 2.223 im Jahr 2014 auf 23.658 im Jahr 2023 gestiegen.
• Im Gesamten verunfallten 2023 fast 11 Mal so viele Pedelec-Fahrer wie 2014.
• Die Wahrscheinlichkeit, bei Stürzen schwer oder tödlich verletzt zu werden, ist bei älteren Menschen höher. Im Jahr 2023 lag das Durchschnittsalter der Pedelec-Verunglückten bei 53 Jahren.

The e-bike, a bicycle with electric motor support, is becoming increasingly popular. But concerns about security and theft are increasing at the same time. Whether while cycling or to ensure your own mobility - it is the responsibility of each individual to take safety precautions.

It is to be hoped that measures will continue to be taken to increase the safety of cyclists and minimize accidents and theft. The loss of a life is simply too much, and every single accident should serve as a reminder.