Sad e-bike accident: Wiener dies on a bike trip in Poysdorf

Sad e-bike accident: Wiener dies on a bike trip in Poysdorf

A tragic incident occurred on Friday evening in Poysdorf, Mistelbach district, as a 66-year-old Viennese died on a bike trip. The man was the last in a nine-member group and drove his e-bike a sloping asphalted freight path when he plunged in a light left curve for reasons that have not yet been clarified. According to Puls24, he probably pushed his head against a concrete base of a rainwater dissipation and suffered serious head injuries. Tragically, the man died at the scene of the accident, even though he was wearing a helmet that was massively damaged by the fall. His wife and other acquaintances were looked after by a crisis intervention team to help them in this difficult situation.

Why are e-bikes so dangerous?

The danger of e-bike accidents should not be underestimated. According to a study by the Zurich University Hospital, such accidents often lead to serious head injuries, which in their kind are similar to the injuries to motorcyclists. E-bike drivers have a six times higher probability for bleeding in the brain compared to conventional cyclists. This is also influenced by the age of the driver. The average age of the incorrect e-bike drivers is 55 years, which is significantly higher compared to cyclists (42.5 years) and motorcyclists (40.2 years). The age factor seems to increase the effects of head injuries, which underlines the recommendation of experts to carry a helmet when driving e-bike that corresponds to the security standards ( Aponet.de ).

statistics about e-bike accidents

A look at the accident statistics shows that the number of pedelec denial has risen sharply in recent years. In 2023, over 23,600 pedelec users had an accident, which is almost eleven times as many accidents as in 2014. In contrast, accidents with non-motorized bicycles have dropped in the same period. The figures make it clear that pedelecs, i.e. bicycles with an electric motor, are particularly at risk due to their high speed and the associated risk factors ( Destatis.de ).

Security in road traffic remains an important topic

Especially against the background of increasing number of accidents and serious injuries, it is essential that both e-bike users and drivers attach particular importance to safety on the streets. In view of the fact that 70% of e-bikers wear a helmet, compared to only 33.8% of cyclists, it can be seen that many people take the security aspect seriously. Nevertheless, there is always a residual risk, especially in the event of falls that are often unpredictable. Therefore, it is important to always be careful and an eye on the surrounding area - for your own safety and the safety of others.

These tragic events should alle us to act responsibly when cycling and especially when dealing with e-bikes. It is in our hands to lower the number of accidents and make the streets safer.