Cycling Safety Survey Reveals Widespread Concerns and E-bike Trends
Key Questions
What are the main findings from the Bike Santa Cruz County survey?
The annual survey found 44% of cyclists feel unsafe, with 54% citing traffic and 64% stressed by close passes. Mission Street was identified as the most unsafe corridor, and preferences for the rail trail showed openness to trade-offs.
How are e-bikes affecting safety trends?
E-bike adoption is rising locally at 44% occasional use, while a UCSD study shows statewide e-bike injuries increasing exponentially. Child injuries are disproportionate and helmet use remains low, heightening policy urgency.
What concerns does the survey highlight for youth cyclists?
Youth safety ranks among top issues alongside traffic stress and poor connections. The data underscores the need for better infrastructure to address widespread safety perceptions.
Bike Santa Cruz County annual survey shows 44% of cyclists feel unsafe, 54% cite traffic, 64% stressed by close passes. E-bike adoption rising (44% use occasionally). Mission Street identified as most unsafe. Rail trail preferences show a pragmatic middle open to trade-offs. New UCSD study shows e-bike injuries increasing exponentially statewide, with disproportionate child injuries and low helmet use, adding urgency to local policy debates.