What are the Safest States for Cycling?

With cyclist fatalities increasing year-on-year in the United States, selecting the safest destinations to enjoy a biking trip is essential. According to research by bike experts at Ice Bike, data compiled from more than 10 years from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration details which states have the lowest percentage of cyclist deaths according to population.

The 10 safest states for cyclists are:

1. Nebraska
2. South Dakota
3. Vermont
4. West Virginia
5. Tennessee
6. Missouri
7. Rhode Island
8. Connecticut
9. Wyoming
10. Massachusetts

Nebraska takes the top spot as the safest state to cycle, with 15 bicyclist deaths over the last 10 years, or 0.77 per 100,000 people. The state’s rate is 67 percent lower than the national average. In the last 10 years, cyclist deaths in the United States have risen 44 percent, from 4,302 in 2010 to 6,205 in 2019.

“The US, being primarily reliant on cars, means that other forms of transport are secondary,” said a spokesperson from Ice Bike. “Throughout the study, there is a general trend of fatalities increasing year-on-year. So, when planning a bike tour, it’s important to know which states you are safest in.”