More e-bike fatalities in the Netherlands
By Mina Solanki
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Cycling in the Netherlands on an e-bike is becoming increasingly popular. E-bikes are bikes which also have an electric motor. With their popularity, the number of e-bike fatalities has also risen, according to new figures regarding traffic-related deaths.
Elderly victims
Since 2014, 79 cyclists on e-bikes have passed away after being involved in a traffic accident. In total, 629 people died in road accidents last year, with 189 being cyclists and 28 of these e-bike cyclists. This year the numbers are expected to grow.
Accidents are especially prevalent amongst the elderly, with 87 percent of road casualties involving e-bike cyclists aged 60 or above. The ageing population is staying mobile for longer, however, this does not mean that they still possess the skills needed to operate an e-bike.
Helmets and courses
Bike paths in the Netherlands are becoming busier and a variety of bikes are being used, meaning that the difference in the speed at which people cycle has also become greater.
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The Dutch Traffic Safety Association (VVN) suggests that older users of e-bikes should follow a course, in which practical tips are given to avoid accidents, such as making sure you can put both feet on the ground when seated.
The VVN offers a few thousand of these courses per year, but that is nothing compared to the number of e-bikes on the streets, namely around 1,5 million in the Netherlands.
E-bike cyclists should also avoid cycling too fast when taking a sharp corner. The Dutch police advise wearing a helmet to prevent head injuries.
The Dutch Cyclists Federation is, however, against the compulsory wearing of helmets for cyclists, as this often adds little protection by a high-speed accident. The VVN is also opposed to compulsory helmets.
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Completed her Master's degree at the University of Groningen and worked as a translator before joining IamExpat. She loves to read and has a particular interest in Greek mythology. In addition to this, she is an avid rower.Read more