In an effort to help make bicyclists safe during a night time ride, Volvo collaborated with Sweden-based start-up company Albedo100 to make Life Paint. Life Paint is a temporary reflective spray paint for bikes. Life Paint makes cyclists easier to see on the road. This paint can be washed off and is not visible in daylight. However, in the dark, its power-fine reflective particles react to the headlights of cars, illuminating the bike. This then alerts motorists of the cyclist’s presence.
During its trial run, 2,000 cans of Life Paint were given away for free at select London bike shops. This was done to test how the public would respond. It was a huge success. Cans were snapped up in only a few days. Now Kentucky bicyclists will have to see whether Volvo pushes through with the international distribution of Life Paint. If they do, it would be worth looking into, especially if you like to ride at night.
Bicycle accident statistics
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 743 people were killed while 48,000 were injured in bicycle crashes in 2013. This was the highest number of bicycle fatalities since 2006 when 772 lives were lost. NHTSA stated that the number of injuries declined in 2013 from the 49,000 injuries recorded in 2012. However, injuries have totaled around 50,000 in previous years, 52,000 in 2010, 51,000 in 2009 and 52,000 again in 2008. Bicycle trips account for only 1% of all trips taken in the United States every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Bicycle fatalities, meanwhile, represent less than 2% of all traffic deaths recorded every year.
Safety tips for cyclists
There’s no doubt that riding a bicycle remains a safe activity. It’s also a healthy option to get to your destination. It does have its risks, however. That’s why it’s important to be cautions and wear the appropriate gear. Did you know that many bicycle related-injuries and fatalities can be avoided by wearing helmets? Helmets are known to reduce the risk of brain and head injuries in the event of a crash. Wearing a helmet along with elbow and knee pads will protect you even more. Another safety tip is to be visible. This is where Life Paint could be a huge help once it becomes available internationally. In the meantime, you can wear fluorescent clothing, reflective tape and use a front and rear light on your bike. This will help other bikers and vehicles see you, especially at night.
As a Kentucky Bicycle Accident Attorney, I want to remind all cyclists to be visible when riding. Cyclists are smaller than cars and trucks, so they have to make themselves visible. Cyclists should also make sure that their safety gear, bike and lights are working properly before setting out and going cycling.