{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Age, crash type and the changing patterns of cycling fatalities in Australia between 1991 and 2022.
{Author}: Boufous S;Olivier J;
{Journal}: Inj Prev
{Volume}: 30
{Issue}: 2
{Year}: 2024 Mar 20
{Factor}: 3.77
{DOI}: 10.1136/ip-2023-045003
{Abstract}: BACKGROUND: Australia has made significant efforts in recent years to promote cycling.
METHODS: Trends in cyclist fatalities in Australia between 1991 and 2022, particularly in those aged 60 years and over, were examined using Poisson regression modelling.
RESULTS: Overall, cyclist fatalities decreased by 1.1% annually. However, while there was an annual decline of 2.5% in those aged <60 years, fatalities in the 60+ age group increased by 3.3% annually. Mortality rates also showed an annual decrease of 3.5% for cyclists aged <60 years but remained almost stable in the 60+ age group over the study period. Single vehicle fatalities increased markedly, particularly among the 60+ age group (4.4% annually).
CONCLUSIONS: The observed increase in 60+ fatalities is due to the ageing of the population rather than a rise in cycling popularity as previously thought. The rise in single vehicle fatalities is likely to be related to the increase in the availability and use of dedicated cycling infrastructure.