Redfin Research Center recently published results regarding bicycle-friendly scores for 154 cities within the U.S. The 2015 rankings consider things like the number of people in the city who commute locally, and the number of city bike lanes. Number one in the nation—Cambridge, Massachusetts—received a score of 92.8. Des Moines didn’t fair nearly as well.
Des Moines Receives Low Score and Ranking
Des Moines received a score of less than half that of Cambridge, coming in with only 44. 9 points. That low score put Des Moines near the bottom of the rankings, falling in 117th place. Right below Des Moines was Toledo, Ohio, with a score of 44.7; right about Des Moines was Honolulu, Hawaii, with a score of 45.2.
Why such a low score for Des Moines?
Part of the problem is that in 2014 in Des Moines, there were more than 400 accidents involving cyclists. Of these, 68 percent of them occurred on local roads. In the year 2013, 73 percent of accidents occurred on local roads. In the years 2012, 2013, and 2014, there were three cyclist fatalities per year.
Des Moines could also improve its bicycle-friendly rating by increasing the number of cycling commuters within the city. What’s more, more bike trails could be added, as well as new cyclist safety initiatives.
How You Can Improve Your Safety While Cycling
Until the city makes improvements, it’s up to you to make efforts to protect yourself while riding. To begin, start by choosing a helmet that’s Snell-certified or DOT-approved, and that fits your head just right.
If you have children, learn how to provide a helmet for a child’s head, too. Also, make sure you familiarize yourself with the rules of the road for cyclists and remember that using a light while riding at night is required. Also to using a light, you can also increase your visibility by wearing reflective clothing.
We also encourage you to read our blog about bicycle/pedestrian accidents and how to avoid them.
We hope that you’re never in a serious cycling accident in the state. If you are, don’t think twice about calling Walker, Billingsley & Bair. Our attorneys can help you to get the compensation that you both need and deserve for your injuries. To get you started, we’ll provide you with a free case consultation. To begin, dial our offices today at (888) 435-9886.