The number of cyclists admitted to hospital with serious injuries has risen over 30% in 10 years, according to safety expertise centre VeiligheidNL.

Last year, 46,800 cyclists were taken to hospital A&E departments after an accident, broadcaster NOS quoted the agency as saying.

There was a rise in the admittance of both elderly cyclists, many of whom use electric bikes, and youngsters. In particular, youngsters are likely to be more reckless in traffic and are often distracted by other things, the agency said.

The agency said it expects the number of people being injured to continue to rise as the population becomes older.

However, improving the cycling infrastructure and information campaigns targeting particular risk groups will help reduce the number of accidents.