Bike accidents and phone use: is there a link?

Using a phone while riding divides attention between the screen, the bicycle and surrounding traffic. A Dutch survey once challenged assumptions about how readily that distraction could be connected to crashes, but its limitations—and later legal changes—are important context for anyone cycling in the Netherlands today.

Why the earlier result attracted attention

Public discussion had long treated handheld phone use as an obvious road-safety risk. Campaigns encouraged young riders in particular to leave devices alone while moving, while policymakers considered whether education or legislation would be more effective.

Researchers then examined whether self-reported phone use corresponded with reported crashes and near misses. The result was unexpected: within the survey data, they did not identify a direct association between the two.

What the survey examined

The internet survey included 2,249 people who cycled at least weekly. Participants represented teenage, adult and older age groups. Questions covered:

• Recent crashes and incidents that almost resulted in a crash.
• How often devices were used for music, calls, messages or information while cycling.
• Whether device use changed in more demanding traffic situations.
• Situations in which participants chose not to listen to music or make a call.

Why “no link found” does not mean “no risk”

A study can fail to identify an association without proving that an activity is safe. The sample may be too small for particular kinds of incidents, and self-reported behaviour can be affected by memory or reluctance to disclose unsafe choices. People who feel more capable may also be more likely to use a device, which can distort comparisons.

The research observed that riders sometimes looked around more often or reduced speed while using a device. Such compensatory behaviour may lower some risks, but it cannot restore undivided attention. It also does not account for how other path users react to a rider who slows suddenly, drifts or responds late.

Distraction changes how a rider behaves

Safe cycling depends on collecting information continuously: hearing an approaching rider, reading a junction, noticing a pedestrian and anticipating a change in speed. Looking down removes visual information, while headphones or a call can reduce awareness of sound. One-handed control can also make signalling, braking and responding to a rough surface harder.

Other riders may compensate by waiting, leaving more space or changing their line. That can prevent a collision, but it still means distracted behaviour has shifted risk and responsibility onto others.

How to respond to an unpredictable rider

• Create space.Do not follow closely or squeeze through a narrow gap.
• Signal early.Use your bell with enough distance for the other rider to register it. Do not assume it has been heard.
• Overtake only when clear.Allow room for a sudden wobble or change of direction.
• Stay calm.If the situation is uncertain, reduce speed and wait rather than forcing a pass.
• Watch at junctions.A distracted rider may miss a signal, priority marking or crossing movement.

Using navigation without holding a phone

Plan the route before departure and use a secure handlebar mount if visual directions are necessary. Keep the display simple, use spoken prompts at a modest volume when appropriate, and stop in a safe place before changing the route, answering a call or reading a message.

Never stop in the middle of a cycle track. Move fully away from the flow first, taking care not to block a junction, crossing or access point.

For broader guidance on signs, priority and predictable riding, visit the cycling safety section and the guide to traffic rules and regulations for cyclists.