June 16, 2025 | Personal Injury
Scranton may not top any lists of the most bike-friendly cities in Pennsylvania. Nonetheless, the city is endeavoring to find new ways to connect its downtown area with other parts of the city and make alternative means of commuting more accessible. This includes expanding infrastructure and services for Scranton’s growing number of cyclists.
Unfortunately, more cycling means more risk of mishaps. Here’s what you need to know about bicycle accidents in Scranton.
Scranton Bicycle Accident Overview
In 2023, there were roughly 1,100 bicycle accidents across Pennsylvania, resulting in 27 deaths. This is a marked increase from the approximately 810 accidents and 15 deaths in 2022. Although these statistics represent wrecks throughout the state, cities like Scranton often see greater numbers of accidents than more rural communities.
Driver actions are responsible for many bicycle accidents, including:
- Failing to yield the right-of-way to cyclists when required
- Speeding or driving too fast for conditions, especially in busy residential and business districts
- Failing to check for cyclists before turning or changing lanes
- Being impaired by alcohol or drugs
“Dooring,” a type of accident where a driver opens their car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist, is also a potential cause of serious injuries. These incidents usually result from drivers or passengers not looking for cyclists when getting out of their vehicles.
What Biking Infrastructure Is Present In Scranton?
Unlike other large communities, Scranton’s bike infrastructure is still in development. As the city’s plans take shape, some potential infrastructure that residents could see includes:
Bicycle Lanes
Bicycle lanes are designated lanes of travel for cyclists when sharing the road with motor vehicles. They add additional space between cars and bicycles, reducing the chances of an accidental collision. Some cities have bike lanes with physical barriers that further reduce the likelihood of bicycles and motor vehicles coming into contact with one another.
Bike Racks And Rental Facilities
Downtown Scranton currently has several bike racks, which enable riders to use their bicycles to access the area. Additional racks throughout the city can encourage ridership, as cyclists will have places to park their bikes while shopping or dining. Bike rentals can further promote cycling by allowing those who don’t own bikes to ride temporarily.
Trails And Paths
Unlike bicycle lanes installed on roads used by motor vehicles, bike trails and paths are accessible only to non-motorized traffic. Other cities use this form of infrastructure to allow cyclists and pedestrians to move around more easily and safely than they could by using roads, even those equipped with bicycle lanes.
Sidewalks
Cyclists in Scranton are generally allowed to use sidewalks (outside of business districts) so long as they don’t interfere with pedestrian traffic. While doing so, they must follow the same laws that apply to drivers and pedestrians, including following right-of-way laws and crossing at crosswalks.
The Future Of Cycling In Scranton
As cycling gains a greater following in Scranton, city leaders are expected to invest more in building infrastructure that enhances safety and accessibility. Currently, sidewalks and bike racks are the main forms of infrastructure in the city. However, future infrastructure might take the form of dedicated bike lanes, trails, and other features.
While these additions can contribute to a safer biking community, it’s equally important that drivers in Scranton become acclimated to noticing and practicing safe driving around cyclists. This mindset can reduce the chances of avoidable collisions between motorists and bicyclists.
Contact the Scranton Personal Injury Lawyers of Fellerman & Ciarimboli, Law PC for Help Today
For more information, contact Fellerman & Ciarimboli, Law PC to schedule a free consultation with our experienced personal injury attorneys. We proudly serve clients in Scranton, Kingston, Honesdale, Berwick, PA, and Columbia, Lackawanna, Luzerne, and Wayne Counties. We’re here to fight for your rights with trusted, experienced legal support. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Fellerman & Ciarimboli, Law PC Scranton
436 Spruce St Suite 100, Scranton, PA 18503
(570) 714-4878
Fellerman & Ciarimboli, Law PC Kingston
183 Market St #200, Kingston, PA 18704
(570) 714-4878
Fellerman & Ciarimboli, Law PC Honesdale
520 Main St, Honesdale, PA 18431
(570) 714-4878
Fellerman & Ciarimboli, Law PC Berwick
120 W Front St, Berwick, PA 18603
(570) 714-4878
