Fact Check: "70% of cyclists say bike lanes increase safety for cyclists."
What We Know
The claim that "70% of cyclists say bike lanes increase safety for cyclists" appears to be based on various studies and surveys regarding cyclist safety and perceptions of bike lanes. According to a study conducted in Gdańsk, 70% of cyclists reported feeling more secure on separated cycling paths compared to traditional bike lanes, suggesting a strong preference for infrastructure that enhances safety (source-2). However, it's important to note that this study specifically focused on separated paths rather than bike lanes in general.
Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides insights into bicycle safety but does not specifically quantify the percentage of cyclists who feel safer due to bike lanes (source-1). Other studies have indicated that separated bike lanes can significantly reduce bicycle-vehicle crashes, which may indirectly suggest that cyclists perceive these lanes as safer (source-4).
Analysis
While the claim references a specific statistic, the context and source of that statistic are critical. The study from Gdańsk indicates that while a significant percentage of cyclists feel safer on separated paths, it does not directly confirm that 70% of all cyclists feel that bike lanes, in general, increase safety. The distinction between separated lanes and traditional bike lanes is crucial, as separated lanes have been shown to provide a higher sense of safety (source-2).
Moreover, the NHTSA's resources highlight the importance of infrastructure in promoting cycling safety but do not provide a definitive percentage regarding cyclists' perceptions of bike lanes (source-1). This lack of specific data from a reliable national source raises questions about the accuracy of the claim.
The reliability of the sources is also a factor. The Gdańsk study is a localized research effort, which may not be representative of broader trends across different regions or countries. In contrast, the NHTSA is a federal agency with a mandate to provide data-driven insights into transportation safety, making its findings more authoritative.
Conclusion
Needs Research. While there is evidence suggesting that a significant number of cyclists feel safer on certain types of bike lanes, the claim that "70% of cyclists say bike lanes increase safety for cyclists" lacks sufficient supporting data from comprehensive national studies. The distinction between different types of bike lanes and the context of the survey results must be considered before drawing firm conclusions.
