Cycling in Glendale, AZ? What You Need To Know

Glendale offers extensive cycling infrastructure and a commitment to bike safety. With over 80 miles of bike lanes and routes and shared-use paths, our city is an inviting place for cyclists of all skill levels. The Los Angeles River Bicycle Path is great for paved rides, while the Deem Hills Circumference Trail is a great option for mountain biking.

Motorists in Glendale must adhere to Arizona’s state laws, which dictate that cyclists must be treated like motorists on public roads. Drivers must also offer at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicycle, and respect dedicated bike lanes, which are reserved exclusively for cyclists unless an emergency or crossing is required. 

Cycling accidents in Glendale, AZ, remain a significant concern, as the city is ranked among the most dangerous in Arizona for cyclists. Our city’s cyclist fatality rate is 1.2 per 100,000 people. Despite investments in infrastructure, fatal and injury crashes involving cyclists have remained steady in recent years, underscoring the need for continued safety improvements and public awareness initiatives to better protect those who ride in Glendale.

The 5 Most Common Causes of Cycling Accidents in Glendale, AZ

Bicycle accidents in Glendale occur far too often from preventable factors: namely, driver negligence. Sharing the road and remaining vigilant around cyclists are just two of the ways drivers can prevent the worst-case scenarios on Glendale roads. The five most common causes of Glendale bicycle accidents are as follows:

1. Distracted Drivers

Distracted driving is a leading cause of cycling accidents in Glendale, with motorists often failing to notice cyclists at intersections, when changing lanes, or while driving through residential streets. Whether drivers are texting, adjusting their stereos, or otherwise not focused on the road, their inattention puts cyclists at risk of sideswipes, rear-end collisions, and other incidents.

2. Failure to Yield and Traffic Violations

Many accidents occur when drivers fail to yield the right-of-way to cyclists, especially at intersections and crosswalks. Violations such as running stop signs or red lights, improper turns, and aggressive maneuvers further endanger cyclists, who are treated as vehicles under Arizona law and have equal rights to use most roadways.

3. Unsafe Road Conditions

Glendale’s streets can present hazards such as uneven pavement, potholes, loose gravel, and poor signage, particularly in areas lacking dedicated bike lanes. These road conditions increase the chances of cyclists losing control or being forced into traffic, elevating the risk of crashes and injuries. 

4. “Dooring” Incidents

Dooring happens when a cyclist riding near parked vehicles is struck by a suddenly opened car door, often leaving too little time to react. Such incidents are especially common in busy city areas and can result in severe accidents, including wrongful death, even for experienced cyclists. 

5. Nighttime and Low-Visibility Hazards

Cycling at dusk, at night, or in poor weather significantly increases accident risk due to reduced visibility and lighting. Cyclists without proper lights or reflective gear can be missed by drivers, while poorly lit intersections and inadequate signage make night riding in Glendale particularly dangerous.

If you experienced a cycling accident in Glendale, you have the right to speak with a bicycle accident attorney about your next steps. Call Rasmussen Injury Law today for a free consultation: (480) 637-5757.