Reducing Bicycle Accidents on Work Campuses

Organizations with large campuses, such as hospitals, corporate headquarters, warehouses, and universities, may encourage bicycle use to reduce travel time between job sites and promote healthier, more sustainable practices. However, like any means of travel, bike riding carries risks, such as collisions with people, cars, and other bikes, falling or tipping over, and a general lack of experience or training among riders.

“While bikes offer employees a healthy alternative for their commute, developing a thoughtful bike safety program is important to keep riders and pedestrians safe,” said Sonya Luisoni, Senior Risk Control Manager at Safety National. “Key elements of a program include bike path design (especially separation from vehicles), clear markings, and a policy to set expectations of riders.”

Below is a framework for reducing bicycle accident risk on work campuses, aligned with safety and risk-management best practices.

Building Effective Engineering and Design Controls

Separating bikes from higher-risk hazards can make riding more predictable for employees who use them. Typical engineering controls can include:

• Dedicated bike lanes with physical separation from other traffic wherever possible.
• Clear striping and pavement markings coupled with high-visibility signage.
• Speed humps and raised crossings to alert drivers.
• Narrowed vehicle lanes to provide ample room for riders.
• Improved sightlines at intersections, parking exits, and building corners.
• Well-maintained surfaces (repair potholes, cracks, and drainage issues promptly).
• Adequate lighting for early morning and evening riders.
• Secure bike parking located away from vehicle congestion.

Utilizing Communication and Training

Gaining employee buy-in for a successful bike safety program starts with communication and training. Communication needs to be clear and succinct, preferably before using company-provided bikes. Education should cover the necessary PPE for riders, such as helmets, lights, reflectors, high-visibility clothing, and proper maintenance. Like driver training, bike training should include how to ride in shared spaces, navigate intersections, handle blind spots, and even practice defensive riding techniques.

Implementing Policy Controls

When employees use bikes, whether campus-owned or rider-owned, there should be clear expectations to reduce unsafe behaviors. Policies should outline a campus traffic policy that includes bikes, e-bikes, scooters, pedestrians, and vehicles. Additionally, drivers and bike riders need to understand right-of-way rules at intersections and crosswalks, speed limits, and how to report incidents or near-misses. Restricted riding zones should be communicated to riders, including high-foot-traffic areas and inside buildings. Like with any other policy, bike safety programs, incidents, and feedback should be reviewed annually to promote continuous improvement.