VCÖ Analysis: Two-Thirds of Fatally Injured Cyclists in Austria Are Over 65

The 40 seniors fatally injured last year represent an increase of 23 compared to 2024. A total of 1.88 million people in Austria belong to the 65-plus generation — and the trend continues to rise.

According to Statistik Austria, a further increase of 470,000 people to around 2.35 million seniors is expected by 2035. This also means a growing number of individuals who depend on or wish to use bicycles or e-bikes in their daily lives.

Call for Greater Safety

In light of this development, the VCÖ is calling for the expansion of the cycling network, particularly along heavily trafficked roads with high speed limits. Protected bike lanes and structurally separated infrastructure could significantly reduce the risk for older road users.

The VCÖ cites traffic calming in built-up areas as another effective measure. „Im Ortsgebiet seien Verkehrsberuhigung sowie Tempo 30 statt 50 wirksame Maßnahmen“, the analysis states. Reducing the speed limit from 50 to 30 km/h could noticeably increase safety for cyclists — especially older ones.

The number of people over 65 in Austria has risen by 550,000 since 2005. This changing age profile of society poses new challenges for transport planning, as the mobility needs and physical conditions of older people require special consideration.

Demographic Change as a Risk Factor

The findings come from a VCÖ analysis based on data from Statistik Austria. The report makes clear that traditional protective measures such as helmets and awareness campaigns alone are insufficient if the infrastructure is not adapted to the needs of older cyclists.

VCÖ expert Schenk pointed out that the combination of greater safety on the roads and a senior-friendly design of the transport system is crucial to reducing the number of serious and fatal cycling accidents in the coming years.

Overall, the analysis highlights a trend that could worsen without countermeasures: as the number of older people who want to remain mobile grows, so too does the responsibility of policymakers and planners to decisively mitigate dangerous routes.