A startup called Spoke is working on a equipment that would let cars talk to bicycles to avoid accidents.

Its part of a growing wave of bike safety innovations as more Americans take to two wheels.

The company said the gadget should be released next year.

A parent cycling with a child on a bike lane in the city.

Ippei Naoi / Getty Images

Bicycle accidents are a growing problem.

Pedestrians comprised about 17% of crash deaths, and bicyclists made up an additional 2%.

Petr Minarik, head of thewebsite Cyclists Hub, uses a cycling gadget called theGarmin Varia RTL515radar.

Someone biking in the city with traffic and pedestrians present.

AlexLinch / Getty Images

Its a rig that monitors traffic behind you.

But not everyone thinks technology is necessary for improved bike safety.

“As an avid cyclist, I ride a lot,” he said.

“Both at home in the Chicago area and when I travel.

The difference is how Im treated as a cyclist in traffic can be night and day.”

In Chicago, “we are often greeted with honks and the occasional close-call,” he added.

“The kindness displayed is very noticeable.