Skip to Content
Streetsblog New York City home
Streetsblog New York City home
Log In
Bicycling

Why Americans Bike and Walk — Or Don’t

bike_safety.jpg

DC-area blog WashCycle points us to this recently released survey from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration [PDF]. The stats on Americans' bicycling and walking behavior are a little behind the times -- from phone interviews done in 2002 -- but there are reams of data compiled from nearly 10,000 questionnaires.

Some of the most interesting nuggets concern perceptions of safety -- like the fact that bicyclists are much more likely to feel unsafe on bike lanes than on bike paths -- which buttress Jennifer Dill's research on cyclist behavior.

On the walking side, suburban residents who walk are much more likely to feel threatened by the "potential for crime" than city residents are. But even crime-fearing suburbanites agree: Motorists are the number one threat to pedestrians:

ped_safety.jpg

Graphics: NHTSA

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

Lawmakers Raise Doubts About Hochul’s Insurance Proposal

The governor's Uber-backed insurance plan is leaving state lawmakers unsure of its effect on crash victims and high auto premiums.

February 27, 2026

‘Broadway Vision’: City Will Revamp Six More Blocks By 2031

The facelift will cost more than $150 million.

February 27, 2026

Mamdani Falls Short of Campaign Pledge to Expand Open Streets Funding Amid Budget Crunch

The mayor's proposed budget does not expand Open Streets — and raises lots of questions.

February 27, 2026

Friday Video: Why Everyone Drives SUVs

Rollie Williams at Climate Town is back, this time explaining the "light-truck loophole."

February 27, 2026

Friday’s Headlines: Undermined at Every Turn Edition

Does the mayor run NYPD and FDNY, or is it the other way around? Plus more news.

February 27, 2026

Mamdani’s FDNY Spews Anti-Street Safety Talking Points at Bizarre Council Hearing

FDNY and DOT were at cross-purposes during a bikelash Council hearing.

February 26, 2026
See all posts