One of the most popular activities that people in the United States enjoy is cycling. However, cycling is also the most dangerous sport that people practice due to falls, crashes or traffic accidents.

It’s certainly a surprise to see something like riding a bike considered dangerous, but when you consider how many people do it, it starts to make more sense.

In a recent study, things went a step further and revealed which places are the most unsafe for cyclists. There are many factors that determine the risk of driving, sometimes outside the operator’s control.

Some states do a very good job of ensuring that people who ride bikes are safe. Others, not so much.

That’s what led to Aventon Bicycles Working to research and analyze where in the United States special caution should be taken when riding a bicycle.

Several factors were taken into account, including “National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) bicyclist fatalities, available bike lanes, and population data to calculate a comprehensive bicycle safety score for each state.” , where higher scores indicate safer conditions for cyclists.” according to the statement.

Right now, the most dangerous place for cyclists is Louisiana, which received an alarmingly low safety score of 1.27 out of 100. A big reason for the surprising result is that there are only 73 dedicated bike lanes available.

The 45 bicycle deaths recorded in 2022 were also the third highest on the list. Ranking number one in that unwanted category was Florida with 222, followed by Arizona with 50.

Those mortality numbers played a big role in states ranking 2 and 3 with overall safety scores of 5.58 and 23.29. Florida is the only state on the list with a bicycle death rate per 100,000 residents that reaches 1.00. Louisiana fell short at 0.98.

That’s what makes it even more surprising that Florida is topping the field when it comes to dedicated bike lanes with 835. Arizona is second with 624, followed by South Carolina, which is eighth overall with a score safety of 35.25 and has 567 lanes.

Mississippi, which comes in at No. 4 with an overall safety score of 25.31, has the fewest dedicated bike lanes, with just 51. Every other state on the list has triple-digit bike lanes.

At number 5 on the list, with the fewest deaths (six) and a score of 25.95, is Delaware. Right behind them, at number 6, with just seven kills, is Hawaii, which earned a score of 32.18.

Rounding out the list at numbers 7, 9 and 10 are Nevada, Utah and Oklahoma.

“Our data really highlights how much safety can vary by state, but no matter where you are, there are steps you can take to protect yourself. Choosing the right route, being alert and using the right equipment can make all the difference,” said John Vinton, Aventon Bikes representative.

“We always suggest passengers plan their routes in advance. If you can, stick to dedicated bike lanes, as these areas tend to be much safer. When bike lanes are not an option, opt for roads with lower speed limits and good visibility. Safety equipment is also essential; Helmets, reflective clothing and the right lights can greatly improve visibility, especially in low light conditions. Even in states with lots of bike infrastructure, a little planning and the right equipment go a long way toward a safer ride.”