Drivers hate bicyclists? US sees an alarming rash of crashes.

Spring 2026 reveals a troubling rise in crashes between drivers and bicyclists in the United States. In Florida, police say a man was charged with attempted murder and other counts after firing a gun from his pickup at a group of boys riding bicycles, wounding one in the leg in March. In Southern California, video shows a blue BMW tailgating cyclists in a Newport Beach bike lane on March 21, forcing a rider to jump onto a curb to avoid a collision. In Georgia, a man was charged with aggravated assault and reckless driving after allegedly striking a group of cyclists with his SUV in April, according to local reports.

Experts say the trend reflects broader changes in road design and behavior. Road engineers widened streets, which can invite higher speeds, and the post-pandemic rebound in traffic has increased overall risk, with more cyclists on the road per PeopleForBikes. National data show 2024 saw 1,103 bicyclist deaths in traffic crashes, while fatalities among children declined, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The conversation centers on road design and enforcement, with advocates pressing for safer infrastructure and greater driver awareness.