UTAH HITS RECORD NUMBER OF CYCLING DEATHS

Preliminary figures recently released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicate cycling fatalities rose another 5% in 2021. Unfortunately, the state of Utah cycling fatalities are on the rise in 2022. With just two months left in the current year, Utah has already seen a 30+ year record in the number of bicyclists dying after being hit by vehicles.

Why are cycling fatalities increasing in Utah? State officials have said that community growth, people using more diversified forms of transportation, and increased participation in bicycling since the pandemic are some of the factors associated with the increase in cycling fatalities. A South Jordan police spokesman also said that the prevalence-or lack-of sidewalks, park strips and bicycle paths not clearly marked within a roadway also plays a part in crashes between bikes and cars.

Drivers using their cellphones is a big factor in cyclist/motorist collisions. "We're seeing a lot of inattentive driving behaviors — people aren't paying attention, having a conversation with someone who's in the backseat (or) you're talking to someone on the phone. Even though it's through your car, you're not paying 100% to the roadway," according to a police spokesman.

Prevention of bicycling deaths falls on pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists. John Gleason, spokesman at the Utah Department of Transportation, noted that drivers need to "train ourselves" to spot pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcycles. Bicyclists and pedestrians also need to do their part to watch for hazards. A good rule of thumb is to make eye contact with drivers of cars approaching an intersection to make sure they see you.

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