Analysis of South Australian Accident Data Involving Child Cyclists

Abstract

Those aged less than 18 years have been found to be over-represented in both injurious and fatal traffic-related bicycle accidents. South Australian Police accident data (SA TARS, 1996) indicated that children were involved in over 40% of fatal bicycle crashes in the years 1981 to 1993. Significantly, it was also found by the SA Coroner that the child cyclists were deemed fully responsible for their crash in 86% of cases, compared to the 49% reported for cyclists aged between 18 and 59 (Longo, 1997). These findings suggest that consideration should be given to the ages at which young cyclists can safely ride in traffic.