Drama in Marktleugast: Cyclist almost dies after cardiac arrest!

Drama in Marktleugast: Cyclist almost dies after cardiac arrest!

On the evening of June 12, 2025, a tragic incident occurred on the local road between Hohenberg and Obersauerhof (Kulmbach district) when a 66-year-old man suffered severe respiratory and cardiac arrest in a bicycle accident. The accident site was a popular route for cyclists, and the cyclist was with two friends when it all suddenly happened. At around 6:30 p.m., the man went off to the right of the road for unknown reasons, plunged his front wheel into a ditch and fell over the handlebars of his bike. The situation was dramatic: His friends and a driver who happened to be passing by immediately provided first aid and managed to prevent the worst and save his life, according to [inFranken] reports.

The seriously injured cyclist was then immediately transported to the Kulmbach Clinic to receive the necessary medical care. The Stadtsteinach police have started investigating the accident, while the material damage to the S-Pedelec and the helmet is estimated at around 200 euros. This incident not only raises questions about road safety, but also testifies to the quick reaction and willingness to help those present.

Risk factors for cyclists

As the Federal Highway Research Institute (BASt) has already established, cycling is healthy and environmentally friendly, but it also entails considerable risks. With regard to the number of accidents, recent analyzes have shown that older people over 65 years of age, as in the case of the injured cyclist, are at a higher risk of serious accidents. The number of unreported bicycle accidents in Germany is estimated at a shocking 70%, which highlights the need for preventative measures. The BASt therefore recommends improved education about possible dangers such as distractions caused by cell phones and the importance of wearing a helmet to avoid more serious head injuries.

It's no secret that unreasonable speed, distraction and lack of safety precautions are contributing factors to many accidents. Surveys have shown that over 50% of cyclists consider distractions while driving to be dangerous. This is particularly alarming since almost half of injured cyclists use their bikes almost every day. Men show a higher risk of accidents than women, while the largest group of accident victims is between 18 and 24 years old. To address these statistics, initiatives to improve cycling infrastructure and road safety workshops are needed to raise awareness and promote responsible driving.

The dramatic events in Marktleugast are another example of how quickly things can change and how important it is to act prudently in critical situations. Even if the cyclist who was ultimately injured was lucky, the hope remains that further incidents of this type can be prevented through early prevention and education.

For more detailed information and updates on this incident, you can view the reporting on inFranken or Frankenpost.

For further information about bicycle accidents and safety aspects, you can read the study by BASt.