Wildlife collisions pose extra danger to cyclists at dusk

Cyclists face a greater risk than motorists in wildlife collisions because they have no protective vehicle body, BR reports. The danger is particularly high at dusk in autumn, when wildlife is more active.

About 220,000 wildlife collisions occur on roads in Germany each year, with around one fifth in Bavaria. In 2025, 2,549 cases nationwide involved personal injuries. Cyclists were demonstrably involved in 158 of those cases, including 36 in Bavaria. No separate overall statistic is available for cyclists.

While about 1 percent of wildlife collisions involving motor vehicles result in personal injury, the proportion is likely to be significantly higher among cyclists. In addition to the collision itself, cyclists face the risk of being injured in a fall.

Fatal collision considered an isolated case

The fatal accident involving extreme athlete Max Riese is considered an isolated, tragic incident, said Thomas Vieweg, traffic coordinator for the Bavarian cycling association. The ultra-cyclist died on September 15 after colliding with a deer while riding downhill in the Berchtesgaden region, according to the police reconstruction so far. Animal hair found on the completely destroyed bicycle supports that account.

Vieweg said he had never heard of a similar case during his years working for the association or as a police officer. Many encounters between cyclists and wildlife are less dramatic because most cyclists travel at lower speeds.

Wildlife also needs protection

Torsten Reinwald of the German Hunting Association nevertheless urged cyclists to exercise caution, especially at dusk, when roe deer are particularly active. Encounters can occur quickly, especially on forest paths.

Such encounters can endanger not only cyclists but also cause significant stress to the animals. In autumn, food becomes scarcer and temperatures fall, so the animals must conserve their strength. Every escape uses energy.

Tips for safer autumn cycling

Vieweg advises cyclists riding at dusk in autumn to travel responsibly. A bicycle helmet, a roadworthy bicycle, good lighting and reflectors should be standard, he said. Autumn temperatures can still be suitable for cycling, but darkness arrives more quickly.

Listening to music through headphones or making phone calls while cycling is generally permitted in Germany as long as riders can hear warning signals. However, cyclists should remove their headphones on forest paths. Wildlife may be heard before it becomes visible or moves into the bicycle’s path.

Fast downhill rides should be avoided at dusk in autumn. More wildlife is active at that time, while higher speeds lengthen braking distances and increase the risk of injury. Other hazards, such as wet leaves, can also be difficult to see.

Vieweg said cyclists should not be discouraged by darkness, risk or cold, wet weather. After being caught in an autumn rain shower at dusk, he said, a warm shower and a hot cup of tea can still provide a pleasant end to the day.