An extensive study carried out in Canada confirms the conclusions I have drawn from the recent work by Prof John Olivier in NSW: Safe infrastructure for people riding bicycles reduces injury rates.
The routes of 690 cyclists that were hospitalised were analysed. The lowest risks were:
- cycle tracks (bike lanes physically separated from motor vehicle traffic) alongside major streets (about 1/10 the risk)
- residential street bike routes (about 1/2 the risk)
Not surprisingly people will choose safer routes if they are available.
The study is commented on the University of British Columbia site
