Which statement about bicycle riders is correct?

The correct statement highlights the serious risk of injury that bicycle riders face when involved in collisions with motor vehicles. Statistics show that when a bicycle and a car collide, the impact can result in severe injuries or fatalities for the cyclist due to the significant difference in size, speed, and protection between a vehicle and a bicycle. This reality informs policy and safety practices aimed at protecting cyclists on the road.

While the other option about riding facing traffic could sound plausible, it is important to note that in many states, bicycle riders are required to ride with the direction of traffic, not facing it. Riding against traffic can create dangerous situations, making it harder for drivers to anticipate the cyclists’ movements, which increases the risk of accidents. Therefore, recognizing the heightened risk of injury from collisions is crucial for understanding bicycle safety issues and the importance of protective measures for cyclists.