How Smart Technology Can Make Cycling Safer

The questions is – ‘Can technology keep cyclists healthy?’ Well, if it keeps them from beaing injured, then ‘yes, it can’.

Cycling is eco-friendly and yes, it’s healthy. And fun. But, unfortunately, as the number of cyclists rises, so does the number of bicycle-related accidents.

That’s why it’s super important to keep cyclists out of accidents so that we reduce injuries (or worse). Thankfully, we have new technological innovations that can help us meet those safety goals, and this article will cover some of them.

If there’s tech we can use to keep cyclists out of hospitals, then we should definitely use it.

Let’s dive in!

Being Safe on Two Wheels

As already mentioned, cycling is super environmentally-friendly. So, naturally, a lot of countries are encouraging their citizens to cycle instead of using their cars/motorcycles. In some places, it’s encouraged to cycle instead of using public transport.

As reported by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), almost 1,200 bicyclists in America have lost their lives in 2023, with an additional 50,000 people being injured.

Many of these accidents often happen in areas where driving speeds are higher and/or on unlit (or not well-lit) roads.

Safety must become a priority, and with various guides, it can be prevented. Cyclists should use reflective clothing and lights, carefully plan the route, and technology such as wearable sensors and multiple applications can be a lifesaver when a person finds themselves in an unexpected danger or situation.

Every ride should be enjoyable and safe for both cyclists and other drivers so that they can come home in one piece.

Here are a few ways in which technology can keep cyclists safer and out of hospitals:

1. Mobile Apps for Safety

It’s strictly forbidden to use mobile phones in traffic because it distracts from the road.

However, technology has adapted to this as well. Many mobile applications use data on accidents, road conditions, and in this way suggest the safest cycling route.

These applications combine police reports, reports from other traffic lists, AI analysis, and GPS to provide accurate and realistic information in real-time. They collect data and, in real time, mark dangerous zones and where there are congested areas, such as intersections with a history of accidents.

By avoiding dangerous points, cyclists can reduce their risk of accidents, plus they know where and how to be extra careful on the road (e.g., where there’s increased traffic, or more pedestrians, if the terrain is rough, etc.).

2. Wearable Impact Sensors

Everyone has fallen off a bike at some point in life. It was when you were learning to ride a bike as a kid. It could be later in life, while you were cycling to work.

Accidents happen. And many of them can’t be avoided. There’s not much we can do. But what about those that CAN be avoided?

Again, that’s where technology steps in. There are small wearable sensors that can be fitted onto a helmet or your body (like an armband) and can track and log falls.

They track how hard someone falls and help with injuries, especially head injuries, even if there are no visible signs. Many are equipped with automatic alarms. If the fall is serious, they can even call emergency services. The connection of bikes and smart technologies can literally save lives.

Also, some of these sensors can be pre-installed in helmets or sports bracelets.

3. Smart Bike Lights

Smart lights come with a warning system that detects approaching vehicles or other cyclists in traffic and measures the distance of nearby vehicles and their speed. Using that data, the device automatically adjusts the intensity and flashing pattern to make the cyclist more visible.

It’s useful to have smart bike lights because they reduce the risk of collisions when visibility is poor.

They help drivers spot bicyclists earlier, at intersections or on narrow streets. Many combine smart lights with reflective clothing.

4. Augmented Reality Visors (AR)

The eyes are constantly focused on the road, so any information needed mustn’t get in the way.

This is exactly what AR visitors are designed for. These smart glasses can project details right into cyclists’ line of sight (e.g., upcoming hazards, critical points, traffic signs, route guidance, etc.).

AR cycling visor helps cyclists keep their eyes on the road, which helps reduce the risk of cycling accidents. It can show the distance to danger zones or nearby vehicles.

Pro tip: If an accident still does happen, don’t forget to call a lawyer who deals with bicycle accidents to make sure your rights are being protected.

That’s why it’s important to have eyes on the road. If you’re cycling, that’s where they belong.

Conclusion

The cycling community can feel safer in traffic precisely because of the safety provided by modern technology. Bikes equipped with smart safety technology can make any city street safer for everyone. And technology has a big impact… on everything.

So, what’s the goal of this technology?

Of course, in this particular case, it’s keeping cyclists safe and sound and keeping accidents to a minimum. This way, cycling becomes safe AND fun, unlike the stress test that they currently are.