Cyclists face heightened danger from wildlife collisions at dusk

BR reports that wildlife collisions pose a greater risk to cyclists than motorists because bicycles offer no protective bodywork and riders can suffer additional injuries in a fall. The fatal crash involving cyclist Max Riese highlights the danger, particularly in autumn and at dusk.

About 220,000 wildlife collisions occur on roads in Germany each year, with roughly one-fifth in Bavaria. In 2025, 2,549 of these incidents nationwide involved personal injuries. Police records identified cyclists as being involved in 158 cases, including 36 in Bavaria.

While about 1% of wildlife collisions involving motor vehicles result in personal injuries, the proportion among cyclists is likely to be significantly higher. There is no separate statistical record for cyclists.

Thomas Vieweg, traffic coordinator at the Bavarian Cycling Association, described Riese’s crash as a tragic individual incident. The ultra-cyclist died on 15 September while riding a racing bike in the Berchtesgaden region. Police believe he collided with a stag while descending a hill. Animal hair found on the completely destroyed bicycle supports that reconstruction.

Vieweg said he had never heard of a similar case during his many 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.

Torsten Reinwald of the German Hunting Association nevertheless urged cyclists to exercise caution, especially at dusk, when roe deer are particularly active. Encounters can happen quickly on forest paths. They pose a danger not only to cyclists but also cause considerable stress to the animals.

In autumn, food becomes scarcer and temperatures fall, so animals must conserve their energy. Every escape uses up valuable reserves. Cyclists should therefore travel carefully and considerately, not only for their own safety but also out of respect for wildlife.

Vieweg recommends wearing a bicycle helmet and using a roadworthy bike with good lighting and reflectors. 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, Vieweg advises cyclists to remove their headphones on forest paths, where they may hear wildlife before they see it or before it appears in front of the bicycle.

Fast descents should be avoided at dusk in autumn. More wildlife is active then, 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 deterred 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.