Cyclists in the US are six times more likely to be killed on the roads than their German or Dutch counterparts.
Incorporating walking and cycling into daily routines could do much to reduce the 'epidemic' of obesity currently afflicting the US population. But, currently, these activities pose too many safety hazards. A pedestrian in the US is 23 times more likely to be killed on the roads than a car occupant, a cyclist 12 times more likely.

Researchers at Rutgers University iin the US and at the European Commission believe there are important lessons to be learned from Germany and Holland. In these nations, pedestrian and cyclist death rates have fallen dramatically in the last two decades, thanks to a number of safety measures that could be adopted in the US.

There are walkways and cycle paths that are well integrated into the traffic system and which go to useful places, like the offce. Reduced speed limits, strict enforcement of traffic laws, and traffic calming measures all decrease the likelihood of accidents. And children learn how to walk and cycle defensively - training which is unheard of in the US. More pleasant and safer conditions could tempt millions of US citizens to walking and cycling, which could lead to long-lasting benefits for the nation's health.