Wow. This accident occurred near my place at the grocery store I shop at frequently. Apparently, the cyclist was struck from behind and the motorist fled after talking with the cyclist. Kudos to the cyclist, Ross Clurman for having the wherewithal despite his injuries to get the license plate and call the cops. The cops were able to act quickly and arrest the motorist for fleeing the scene. (not sure if it was the Sunset Valley or Austin cops). No word yet on whether the DA is going to press additional charges. Stay tuned. Many well wishes to Ross for a speedy recovery. Hope to see you riding soon!
Police: Driver charged after hit and run of cyclist
By Andrea Lorenz | Thursday, July 23, 2009, 04:54 PM
The Blotter, Blog, Austin Statesman
An Austin man, Gregory Feazell, was charged with failure to stop and render aid, a third-degree felony, after police say he hit a cyclist Tuesday evening on Brodie Lane near William Cannon Drive.
A witness told police the driver of a PT Cruiser hit a cyclist near the H-E-B at 6900 Brodie Lane. The cyclist flew over the top of the car and rolled onto the street, according to the arrest warrant.
Police say Feazell, 26, left the scene for a nearby apartment complex, where police found him. According to arrest documents, Feazell told police he had returned home to tell his mother what happened and that he had had no phone service at the scene of the crash.
The cyclist, Ross Clurman, told police he was within a few inches to the curb - as close as he could get - when he was hit. Clurman said the driver got out of his car and asked him if he was alright, according to police. Clurman responded, “What do you think?”
Clurman was taken to University Medical Center Brackenridge with complaints of pain in his neck and back, according to the documents.
Fox News interviewed the cyclist:
And of course Velociped sounds off about what the cyclist should of done to make himself more visible. Basically, that the cyclist should have been riding in the middle of the lane (in accordance with the Tx Transportation Code) however it sure is easy to criticize when you live in Dallas and have never even seen nor ridden this road. I hate this road near Wm Cannon because of the narrow lanes, sewage drains that swoop down from the curb, and ending sidewalks/bike lanes. What's a cyclist to do? It doesn't matter where we ride - left, middle, right. Motorists are frustrated that we're even there and will attempt to pass us. We would all love to ride in the middle of the lane but we're not respected and we're given grief for "impeding traffic". This is where the Safe Passing Bill would have helped. Now as it is, motorists are only punished if they hit us.
Showing posts with label accidents. Show all posts
Showing posts with label accidents. Show all posts
Friday, July 24, 2009
Monday, June 08, 2009
In the headlines
Deputies seek identity of injured cyclist in NW Harris County (Texas)
Ryan Stankavage, 14, killed when his bicycle is hit by a minivan in West Mahanoy Township
Woman struck, killed on Route 13 (Outside Philly, PA)
Bicycle rider struck twice, dies (Sturgis, MI)
Newberry Man Killed on Bicycle; Hit by 18-Wheeler
Holbrook woman in good condition after bike accident (Quincy, MA)
Boy uninjured after being hit by SUV
Girl Hospitalized After Bike Crash (Boston, MA)
Man who died in motorcycle-bicycle crash identified
15 Year Rosemount Teen On Bike Killed By Car
Two boys seriously injured in bicycle-van crash in Shenandoah
Jail official recovers at home from bike accident
Ryan Stankavage, 14, killed when his bicycle is hit by a minivan in West Mahanoy Township
Woman struck, killed on Route 13 (Outside Philly, PA)
Bicycle rider struck twice, dies (Sturgis, MI)
Newberry Man Killed on Bicycle; Hit by 18-Wheeler
Holbrook woman in good condition after bike accident (Quincy, MA)
Boy uninjured after being hit by SUV
Girl Hospitalized After Bike Crash (Boston, MA)
Man who died in motorcycle-bicycle crash identified
15 Year Rosemount Teen On Bike Killed By Car
Two boys seriously injured in bicycle-van crash in Shenandoah
Jail official recovers at home from bike accident
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
Safe Passing Bill, SB 488 on its way to the Governor’s desk
This is really great news as this is the last step in the legislative process. All of our hard work and commitment to the process is really paying off. We're almost there!
From BikeTexas:
The final version of the Safe Passing Bill, SB 488, was passed Sunday by the Texas House. Monday, the Senate voted on it, and overwhelmingly voted to pass it.
That was the final step for the bill to complete in the Legislature. Now, it will be sent to Governor Perry, and we are cautiously optimistic that he will sign it into law. We will know the outcome by June 21, the last day the Governor can sign or veto bills.
Thank you all for your help and support so far. We will keep you updated on the bill's progress. To read the bill text, see the bill authors, or check the record votes, click here.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
This week's accidents and fatalities
Cyclist hit Friday in Albany, Georgia dies
Baltimore cyclist dies in crash at Conowingo Dam
Chicago police officer charged in fatal auto-bicycle collision that killed a 13-year-old
75-Year-Old Woman Charged in fatal auto-bicycle collision in Amherst, Massachusetts
Bicycle accident victim airlifted from Plum Island | Newburyport, Massachusetts
Cyclist collapses, dies at Phil’s Trail complex in Bend, Arkansas
Tucson cyclist dies in auto-bicycle collision; driver arrested
Baltimore cyclist dies in crash at Conowingo Dam
Chicago police officer charged in fatal auto-bicycle collision that killed a 13-year-old
75-Year-Old Woman Charged in fatal auto-bicycle collision in Amherst, Massachusetts
Bicycle accident victim airlifted from Plum Island | Newburyport, Massachusetts
Cyclist collapses, dies at Phil’s Trail complex in Bend, Arkansas
Tucson cyclist dies in auto-bicycle collision; driver arrested
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Bicycle Accident Insurance - Are you covered?
Bicycle Accident Insurance in AmericaBy Danny Workman, an Insurance Examiner
Examiner.com
May 26, 12:41 PM
With an increasing number of Americans choosing to ride their bicycles to work as a way of cutting down expenses during the recession, bicycle riders in the U.S. can only buy accidental personal injury coverage if they own a vehicle and are covered by automobile insurance.
Comprehensive bicycle insurance is readily available in some European countries like Switzerland regardless of whether or not the cyclist owns an auto insurance policy.
Author of Bicycling and the Law, former Olympic cyclist Bob Mionske writes that many American cyclists choose not to own cars and should not be discriminated against for making that choice.
Cyclists at the Mercy of Motorists
Focusing on 1,020 fatal accidents from 1994 to 1997, a New York City study titled Killed By Automobile found that motorists were principally responsible for 74% of all accidents and partially at fault for an additional 16% of deadly collisions.
A more recent analysis from Toronto police shows that the top 3 types of crashes involving automobiles and bicycles are caused by:
1. Motorists driving out or turning at controlled intersections
2. Motorists overtaking cyclists
3. Motorists opening vehicle doors in front of cyclists.
Cyclist Injury Insurance in the U.S.
In states that practice tort liability, a cyclist injured in a collision with an automobile is covered under the driver’s auto insurance policy provided that the motorist is at fault for the accident. Even then, the cyclist is out of luck if the driver is either uninsured or insured for an inadequate amount of coverage. To cover potential gaps in coverage, Bob Mionske recommends that cyclists buy as much Uninsured/Underinsured coverage under their own auto insurance policies as possible.
In no-fault and so-called hybrid states, cyclists are covered under the Personal Injury Protection feature of their auto insurance policies. Without owning a vehicle, cyclists again depend on the motorist being insured for an adequate amount of accident insurance that will protect against potentially life-threatening injuries and months off from work.
In all states, cyclists who do not own a vehicle cannot buy insurance protection against uninsured and underinsured motorists.
Bicycle Damage Insurance in the U.S.
Ironically, American cyclists can readily insure their bicycles against theft or damage through their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance.
Homeowner and renter coverage may also reimburse personal liability for an insured cyclist’s negligent acts, like skidding into a BMW and causing a nasty scratch. Individual liability policies are also available.
If American cyclists can easily buy insurance to protect against damages to their bicycles and the other guy’s new paint job, why can’t they buy insurance against serious injuries to themselves arising from those same accidents?
MTBLAWGIRL Readers: Any recommendations for the best insurance carriers/coverage? Might be a good time to review your policies just in case your bike is stolen or damaged or worse, you're involved in an auto-bike accident. Stay tuned for another post from yours truly on insurance coverage in Texas.
Examiner.com
May 26, 12:41 PM
With an increasing number of Americans choosing to ride their bicycles to work as a way of cutting down expenses during the recession, bicycle riders in the U.S. can only buy accidental personal injury coverage if they own a vehicle and are covered by automobile insurance.
Comprehensive bicycle insurance is readily available in some European countries like Switzerland regardless of whether or not the cyclist owns an auto insurance policy.
Author of Bicycling and the Law, former Olympic cyclist Bob Mionske writes that many American cyclists choose not to own cars and should not be discriminated against for making that choice.
Cyclists at the Mercy of Motorists
Focusing on 1,020 fatal accidents from 1994 to 1997, a New York City study titled Killed By Automobile found that motorists were principally responsible for 74% of all accidents and partially at fault for an additional 16% of deadly collisions.
A more recent analysis from Toronto police shows that the top 3 types of crashes involving automobiles and bicycles are caused by:
1. Motorists driving out or turning at controlled intersections
2. Motorists overtaking cyclists
3. Motorists opening vehicle doors in front of cyclists.
Cyclist Injury Insurance in the U.S.
In states that practice tort liability, a cyclist injured in a collision with an automobile is covered under the driver’s auto insurance policy provided that the motorist is at fault for the accident. Even then, the cyclist is out of luck if the driver is either uninsured or insured for an inadequate amount of coverage. To cover potential gaps in coverage, Bob Mionske recommends that cyclists buy as much Uninsured/Underinsured coverage under their own auto insurance policies as possible.
In no-fault and so-called hybrid states, cyclists are covered under the Personal Injury Protection feature of their auto insurance policies. Without owning a vehicle, cyclists again depend on the motorist being insured for an adequate amount of accident insurance that will protect against potentially life-threatening injuries and months off from work.
In all states, cyclists who do not own a vehicle cannot buy insurance protection against uninsured and underinsured motorists.
Bicycle Damage Insurance in the U.S.
Ironically, American cyclists can readily insure their bicycles against theft or damage through their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance.
Homeowner and renter coverage may also reimburse personal liability for an insured cyclist’s negligent acts, like skidding into a BMW and causing a nasty scratch. Individual liability policies are also available.
If American cyclists can easily buy insurance to protect against damages to their bicycles and the other guy’s new paint job, why can’t they buy insurance against serious injuries to themselves arising from those same accidents?
MTBLAWGIRL Readers: Any recommendations for the best insurance carriers/coverage? Might be a good time to review your policies just in case your bike is stolen or damaged or worse, you're involved in an auto-bike accident. Stay tuned for another post from yours truly on insurance coverage in Texas.
Friday, May 22, 2009
In the Headlines this week
Cyclist dies after collision with car
Idaho Statesman, May 21, 2009
The cyclist, believed to be a 62-year-old man, was riding south on Milwaukee Street, where he was hit by a Dodge Neon while attempting to cross the west side of the intersection with Emerald Street on Thursday night. The cyclist was taken to a Boise hospital, where he died about two hours later from injuries sustained in the crash, police said. The cyclist was wearing a helmet, police said. The driver of the car, a 21-year-old man, is cooperating with the investigation. No arrests or citations have been filed. See TV news coverage and video here.
Track racer dies from head injuries
By Tom Held of the Journal Sentinel, May 21, 2009
Officials at the Washington Park Velodrome in Kenosha sent out word Thursday afternoon confirming that Donald Vanderbrook had died from the head injuries he suffered in a crash while racing Tuesday night. Read more.
Cyclist killed in accident remembered in "Ride of Silence"
WZZM 13 ONLINE, May 21, 2009
GRAND RAPIDS (WZZM) - A 55-year-old man is dead after a bicycle accident on the city's northwest side. The bicyclist was hit by a city dump truck Wednesday afternoon. People rushed to his side as he lay in the street. Witnesses say they didn't hear the impact; they only heard the backup sound of the dump truck. The city worker reversed the truck once he saw the man's bike and body in his rear view mirror. Read more.
Minneapolis cyclist in bike lane killed by semi truck
By LORA PABST, Star Tribune, May 20, 2009
Minneapolis police officers investigated the wheel area of a commercial truck involved in the fatal bicycle accident today. After spending months painstakingly rebuilding his bicycle, Dennis Dumm rode it every day from his home in south Minneapolis to work on the other side of downtown. On Wednesday morning, just as Dumm took off from the bike lane at the intersection of Park Avenue and E. 14th Street, a semitrailer driver began to make a wide left turn, crossing in front of Dumm and hitting and killing the 31-year-old cyclist. Read more
Pa. man dies on mountain-biking trail in S. Utah
Philly.com, The Associated Press, May 20, 2009
ST. GEORGE, Utah - Authorities say a man has died on a mountain-biking trail in Washington County in southern Utah. County sheriff's deputies say 40-year-old Joseph Manning, of Avondale, Pa., died Sunday in the Little Creek area. He was mountain biking with friends but became separated from them. His friends found him near a pool of water but emergency workers couldn't revive him. Manning's body has been sent to the state medical examiner for an autopsy. Washington County Sheriff's Chief Deputy Rob Tersigni says foul play is not suspected.
Boy dies in bicycle accident
5/20/2009, Capital News 9
ALBANY, N.Y. -- An 11-year-old boy died Tuesday after crashing his bike into a car in Albany. Police said Benjamin Cocco was riding his bicycle on Fairview Avenue, heading toward McCormack Road, around 7 p.m. when a witness said he ran a stop sign and struck the moving car. He hit the passenger side door, then fell to the pavement. He was not wearing a helmet. Paramedics from the fire department administered CPR until an ambulance arrived. He was pronounced dead at St. Peter's Hospital. The driver of the car was not ticketed
Deputy Improving After Bicycle Accident
KCCI.com, May 19, 2009
DES MOINES, Iowa -- Polk County Sheriff's Deputy, Leesa Shoemaker is out of the intensive care unit. Shoemaker suffered some serious leg and facial injuries last week. She was hit by a car on Highway 415 while she was riding her bike on the morning of May 12. The driver of the car was not charged in the incident.
Sharing the road with bicycles
By Pat Reavy, Deseret News, May 19, 2009
Dwight Butler is always cautious when he rides his bicycle to and from work. Not only does the co-owner of Wasatch Touring, 702 E. 100 South, always wear a helmet, but he usually rides on the sidewalk or through areas with less car traffic, such as the University of Utah campus. On Tuesday, Butler's helmet saved him from possible serious injury if not death. Read more. Nearly 100 comments!
Driver ticketed in Boulder Ironman champion accident
Dave Scott injured while riding his bike on Wonderland Hill
By Amy Bounds, The Daily Camera, May 19, 2009
BOULDER, Colo. — Boulder police ticketed the 61-year-old driver in the bike-versus-car accident that injured Dave Scott, a six-time Ironman world champion and triathlon coach. Scott was injured Sunday afternoon while riding his bike on Wonderland Hill Avenue near Linden Avenue. Police said Ramona Sands, of Boulder, was driving slowly while looking for an open house and, thinking she had passed it, made a U-turn. Read more.
Woman critical after collision with cyclist on Boulder Creek Path
Police: No charges expected in "unfortunate" accident
By Vanessa Miller, The Daily Camera, May 18, 2009
BOULDER, Colo. — A 60-year-old woman remained in intensive care Monday after being hit by a cyclist on the Boulder Creek Path, Boulder police spokeswoman Sarah Huntley said. Read more. Lots of comments too.
Idaho Statesman, May 21, 2009
The cyclist, believed to be a 62-year-old man, was riding south on Milwaukee Street, where he was hit by a Dodge Neon while attempting to cross the west side of the intersection with Emerald Street on Thursday night. The cyclist was taken to a Boise hospital, where he died about two hours later from injuries sustained in the crash, police said. The cyclist was wearing a helmet, police said. The driver of the car, a 21-year-old man, is cooperating with the investigation. No arrests or citations have been filed. See TV news coverage and video here.
Track racer dies from head injuries
By Tom Held of the Journal Sentinel, May 21, 2009
Officials at the Washington Park Velodrome in Kenosha sent out word Thursday afternoon confirming that Donald Vanderbrook had died from the head injuries he suffered in a crash while racing Tuesday night. Read more.
Cyclist killed in accident remembered in "Ride of Silence"
WZZM 13 ONLINE, May 21, 2009
GRAND RAPIDS (WZZM) - A 55-year-old man is dead after a bicycle accident on the city's northwest side. The bicyclist was hit by a city dump truck Wednesday afternoon. People rushed to his side as he lay in the street. Witnesses say they didn't hear the impact; they only heard the backup sound of the dump truck. The city worker reversed the truck once he saw the man's bike and body in his rear view mirror. Read more.
Minneapolis cyclist in bike lane killed by semi truck
By LORA PABST, Star Tribune, May 20, 2009
Minneapolis police officers investigated the wheel area of a commercial truck involved in the fatal bicycle accident today. After spending months painstakingly rebuilding his bicycle, Dennis Dumm rode it every day from his home in south Minneapolis to work on the other side of downtown. On Wednesday morning, just as Dumm took off from the bike lane at the intersection of Park Avenue and E. 14th Street, a semitrailer driver began to make a wide left turn, crossing in front of Dumm and hitting and killing the 31-year-old cyclist. Read more
Pa. man dies on mountain-biking trail in S. Utah
Philly.com, The Associated Press, May 20, 2009
ST. GEORGE, Utah - Authorities say a man has died on a mountain-biking trail in Washington County in southern Utah. County sheriff's deputies say 40-year-old Joseph Manning, of Avondale, Pa., died Sunday in the Little Creek area. He was mountain biking with friends but became separated from them. His friends found him near a pool of water but emergency workers couldn't revive him. Manning's body has been sent to the state medical examiner for an autopsy. Washington County Sheriff's Chief Deputy Rob Tersigni says foul play is not suspected.
Boy dies in bicycle accident
5/20/2009, Capital News 9
ALBANY, N.Y. -- An 11-year-old boy died Tuesday after crashing his bike into a car in Albany. Police said Benjamin Cocco was riding his bicycle on Fairview Avenue, heading toward McCormack Road, around 7 p.m. when a witness said he ran a stop sign and struck the moving car. He hit the passenger side door, then fell to the pavement. He was not wearing a helmet. Paramedics from the fire department administered CPR until an ambulance arrived. He was pronounced dead at St. Peter's Hospital. The driver of the car was not ticketed
Deputy Improving After Bicycle Accident
KCCI.com, May 19, 2009
DES MOINES, Iowa -- Polk County Sheriff's Deputy, Leesa Shoemaker is out of the intensive care unit. Shoemaker suffered some serious leg and facial injuries last week. She was hit by a car on Highway 415 while she was riding her bike on the morning of May 12. The driver of the car was not charged in the incident.
Sharing the road with bicycles
By Pat Reavy, Deseret News, May 19, 2009
Dwight Butler is always cautious when he rides his bicycle to and from work. Not only does the co-owner of Wasatch Touring, 702 E. 100 South, always wear a helmet, but he usually rides on the sidewalk or through areas with less car traffic, such as the University of Utah campus. On Tuesday, Butler's helmet saved him from possible serious injury if not death. Read more. Nearly 100 comments!
Driver ticketed in Boulder Ironman champion accident
Dave Scott injured while riding his bike on Wonderland Hill
By Amy Bounds, The Daily Camera, May 19, 2009
BOULDER, Colo. — Boulder police ticketed the 61-year-old driver in the bike-versus-car accident that injured Dave Scott, a six-time Ironman world champion and triathlon coach. Scott was injured Sunday afternoon while riding his bike on Wonderland Hill Avenue near Linden Avenue. Police said Ramona Sands, of Boulder, was driving slowly while looking for an open house and, thinking she had passed it, made a U-turn. Read more.
Woman critical after collision with cyclist on Boulder Creek Path
Police: No charges expected in "unfortunate" accident
By Vanessa Miller, The Daily Camera, May 18, 2009
BOULDER, Colo. — A 60-year-old woman remained in intensive care Monday after being hit by a cyclist on the Boulder Creek Path, Boulder police spokeswoman Sarah Huntley said. Read more. Lots of comments too.
I'm just the messenger
There have been many bicycle-accident headlines in the news this week which either means there are more accidents or more coverage in the media due to it being Bike Month. I know it's depressing to read these headlines. It's even more frustrating to be scanning for them every day and reporting them to you. It's a real downer for me personally because I like to have a happy news filter. Some of my Twitter readers have even questioned my love for cycling because of the prevalence of the accidents that I report. So much so that I am considering just reporting them here once a week on my blog instead of as it happens. What do you think? Should I post as it happens via Twitter (hello, that's what we use Twitter for - news!) as well as blog once a week or should I just limit it to the weekly blog?
I think it's important to note that my cycling related posts tend to be fairly well-balanced because of my love for cycling. I don't just feature articles about bicycle accidents. I feature articles about the fun side of cycling, the freedom, the joy as well as the darker side where cyclists are arrested, ticketed, injured and killed.
There are no easy, one size fits all solutions. The comments and responses to any accident article demonstrate how tenuous problem solving can be and how deeply angry some cyclists and drivers are at one another. Most often any discussion seems to result in heated emotional debate rather than a candid and objective discussion of the issues.
I don't really know where I'm going with this post. My only motivation for posting these headlines is to honor those who have lost their lives and highlight the issues surrounding auto-bicycle accidents, altercations, resentment. There's healing in the simple process of acknowledging these accidents are way too prevalent. And the advocate inside me wants to bring others into the process and joy of giving back to the community that has given so much to me and helped me to truly find the simple joys in feeling the freedom of the road and the trail. It's what drives me to work so earnestly to get the Safe Passing legislation passed even if it means pulling my head out of the sand.
I think it's important to note that my cycling related posts tend to be fairly well-balanced because of my love for cycling. I don't just feature articles about bicycle accidents. I feature articles about the fun side of cycling, the freedom, the joy as well as the darker side where cyclists are arrested, ticketed, injured and killed.
There are no easy, one size fits all solutions. The comments and responses to any accident article demonstrate how tenuous problem solving can be and how deeply angry some cyclists and drivers are at one another. Most often any discussion seems to result in heated emotional debate rather than a candid and objective discussion of the issues.
I don't really know where I'm going with this post. My only motivation for posting these headlines is to honor those who have lost their lives and highlight the issues surrounding auto-bicycle accidents, altercations, resentment. There's healing in the simple process of acknowledging these accidents are way too prevalent. And the advocate inside me wants to bring others into the process and joy of giving back to the community that has given so much to me and helped me to truly find the simple joys in feeling the freedom of the road and the trail. It's what drives me to work so earnestly to get the Safe Passing legislation passed even if it means pulling my head out of the sand.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
This week's Bicycle Headlines: Lawsuits, Accidents and Fatalities
Woman taken to hospital after bicycle accident in Palmer
by The Republican Newsroom
Saturday May 16, 2009, 1:04 PM
By LORI STABILE
PALMER, MA - Palmer police are investigating a bicycle accident in which a 50-year-old woman's leg was impaled on part of her handlebars. Diane M. Pikul of the Three Rivers section fell off her bicycle on Sykes Street (Route 181) by Palmer Road on Friday about 6:30 p.m. Sgt. Christopher J. Burns said the brake lever attached to the handlebars impaled Pikul's right thigh. Detective Sgt. Scott E. Haley said fire officials were called to cut the handlebars from the bicycle so the woman could be taken to the hospital. Pikul was taken to Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, he said. Burns said Pikul was traveling south on her Cannondale mountain bike when she lost control as she tried to cross over the railroad tracks. Railroad tracks cross that section of Route 181, making the road uneven. Haley said this is not the first accident involving a bicyclist in that spot and signs recently have been put up warning bicyclists to be careful. Burns said Pikul was wearing a helmet.
Victim of cycling accident identified
KONP Local News
May 16th, 2009 - 1:46am
Quilcene, WA - The State Patrol has identified the victim of the fatal car - bicycle accident near Quilcene Thursday morning. 51-year old James M. Miller died at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. Troopers say Miller was riding his bicycle northbound on Highway 101 about 8 miles north of Quilcene just after 11 a.m. Reports say a northbound red 1998 Ford Mustang driven by 47-year old Mark Owens of Quilcene had slowed down in order to pass the bicyclist. Officials say Miller veered his bike into the path of the car, causing the collision. Authorities believe possible inattention by Miller was the cause of the crash. Troopers say Owens was cited for Driving While License Suspended.
Bicyclist killed in northeast Portland
Associated Press - May 15, 2009 1:15 AM ET
PORTLAND, OR (AP) - Portland Police say a 36-year-old man died when his bicycle collided with a vehicle late Thursday afternoon in northeast Portland. Detective Mary Wheat says it appears the driver had the right of way, but the investigation is continuing. The bicyclist's name has not been released, but a neighbor told The Oregonian he was a single parent raising a young son. The bicycle fatality is the Portland's second this year.
Aspen bicycle accident triggers suit against Ritz-Carlton
Aspen Times
May 15, 2009
ASPEN, CO — An Aspen youth filed a complaint in Pitkin County District Court against Ritz-Carlton Hotel Co. seeking more than $100,000 in damages that stem from an accident last summer. Peter Wampler said he was injured in the July 28 incident that occurred at South Mill and Puppy Smith streets. The complaint says Wampler was riding a bicycle when he was involved in an accident with a vehicle driven by Vedran Nozica. Nozica was an employee of Ritz-Carlton at the time. Wampler was 13 years old when the accident happened. “The accident and resulting injuries, damages and losses to the plaintiff were caused by negligence of the defendant’s employee, for which defendant is vicariously liable,” the complaint says. The complaint was filed Wednesday. He is seeking a monetary judgment for more than $100,000. That figure includes attorney fees, penalties or punitive damages. Wampler has also demanded a jury trial, court documents say. He is the son of Michael Wampler, an Aspen bike-shop owner.
Cortez girl dies when bicycle collides with vehicle
by Steve Grazier
The Cortez Journal Article via Durango Herald News
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
GRAND JUNCTION, CO - One of two Cortez girls struck by a car while crossing a downtown intersection on a bicycle died Monday evening. Sherae House, 10, died from serious head injuries after a collision at Third and Chestnut streets Sunday afternoon. She was airlifted by helicopter to St. Mary's Medical Center in Grand Junction for treatment Sunday night and died there Monday evening, said Cortez Police Chief Roy Lane. "It's a real sad thing for the family and for the lady driving the car," said Lane, who added he received a call from family members of House about 8:30 p.m. Monday. The two girls failed to stop when approaching a stop sign at the city intersection, Lane said. The driver of the blue, 2001 Ford Focus was heading west on Third Street about 6:19 p.m. Sunday when the accident occurred. She was not issued a citation by police. The 8-year-old girl involved in the accident, Raven Roy, had some broken bones and was being treated at Southwest Memorial Hospital in Cortez, Lane said. The girls were on the bike together and headed into the path of the vehicle. Both girls were not wearing helmets at the time of the accident, Lane said. Cortez municipal law does not require bike riders to wear helmets, but the chief said law-enforcement officials strongly suggest helmet usage. "It's always a good practice," Lane said. "We always recommend a helmet for biking or motorcycles."
Cyclist dies after hitting auto
By T&D Staff Monday, May 11, 2009
SC - A 53-year-old Orangeburg man died Saturday morning after his crashing his bicycle into an oncoming car, according to Lance Cpl. Scot Edgeworth of the S.C. Highway Patrol. A 1996 four-door Mercury sedan driven by Orangeburg resident Marion Still, Jr., 56, was traveling south on U.S. Highway 301 in the left lane. In the right lane, the bicyclist was going in the same direction. Edgeworth said the bicyclist attempted to make a left turn crossing both lanes when the car struck him, resulting in his death. The incident occurred about a mile south of Orangeburg at 11 a.m. Saturday. Still was not injured in the crash. He was wearing a seat belt. No other passengers were in the vehicle with him, according to Edgeworth.
by The Republican Newsroom
Saturday May 16, 2009, 1:04 PM
By LORI STABILE
PALMER, MA - Palmer police are investigating a bicycle accident in which a 50-year-old woman's leg was impaled on part of her handlebars. Diane M. Pikul of the Three Rivers section fell off her bicycle on Sykes Street (Route 181) by Palmer Road on Friday about 6:30 p.m. Sgt. Christopher J. Burns said the brake lever attached to the handlebars impaled Pikul's right thigh. Detective Sgt. Scott E. Haley said fire officials were called to cut the handlebars from the bicycle so the woman could be taken to the hospital. Pikul was taken to Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, he said. Burns said Pikul was traveling south on her Cannondale mountain bike when she lost control as she tried to cross over the railroad tracks. Railroad tracks cross that section of Route 181, making the road uneven. Haley said this is not the first accident involving a bicyclist in that spot and signs recently have been put up warning bicyclists to be careful. Burns said Pikul was wearing a helmet.
Victim of cycling accident identified
KONP Local News
May 16th, 2009 - 1:46am
Quilcene, WA - The State Patrol has identified the victim of the fatal car - bicycle accident near Quilcene Thursday morning. 51-year old James M. Miller died at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. Troopers say Miller was riding his bicycle northbound on Highway 101 about 8 miles north of Quilcene just after 11 a.m. Reports say a northbound red 1998 Ford Mustang driven by 47-year old Mark Owens of Quilcene had slowed down in order to pass the bicyclist. Officials say Miller veered his bike into the path of the car, causing the collision. Authorities believe possible inattention by Miller was the cause of the crash. Troopers say Owens was cited for Driving While License Suspended.
Bicyclist killed in northeast Portland
Associated Press - May 15, 2009 1:15 AM ET
PORTLAND, OR (AP) - Portland Police say a 36-year-old man died when his bicycle collided with a vehicle late Thursday afternoon in northeast Portland. Detective Mary Wheat says it appears the driver had the right of way, but the investigation is continuing. The bicyclist's name has not been released, but a neighbor told The Oregonian he was a single parent raising a young son. The bicycle fatality is the Portland's second this year.
Aspen bicycle accident triggers suit against Ritz-Carlton
Aspen Times
May 15, 2009
ASPEN, CO — An Aspen youth filed a complaint in Pitkin County District Court against Ritz-Carlton Hotel Co. seeking more than $100,000 in damages that stem from an accident last summer. Peter Wampler said he was injured in the July 28 incident that occurred at South Mill and Puppy Smith streets. The complaint says Wampler was riding a bicycle when he was involved in an accident with a vehicle driven by Vedran Nozica. Nozica was an employee of Ritz-Carlton at the time. Wampler was 13 years old when the accident happened. “The accident and resulting injuries, damages and losses to the plaintiff were caused by negligence of the defendant’s employee, for which defendant is vicariously liable,” the complaint says. The complaint was filed Wednesday. He is seeking a monetary judgment for more than $100,000. That figure includes attorney fees, penalties or punitive damages. Wampler has also demanded a jury trial, court documents say. He is the son of Michael Wampler, an Aspen bike-shop owner.
Cortez girl dies when bicycle collides with vehicle
by Steve Grazier
The Cortez Journal Article via Durango Herald News
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
GRAND JUNCTION, CO - One of two Cortez girls struck by a car while crossing a downtown intersection on a bicycle died Monday evening. Sherae House, 10, died from serious head injuries after a collision at Third and Chestnut streets Sunday afternoon. She was airlifted by helicopter to St. Mary's Medical Center in Grand Junction for treatment Sunday night and died there Monday evening, said Cortez Police Chief Roy Lane. "It's a real sad thing for the family and for the lady driving the car," said Lane, who added he received a call from family members of House about 8:30 p.m. Monday. The two girls failed to stop when approaching a stop sign at the city intersection, Lane said. The driver of the blue, 2001 Ford Focus was heading west on Third Street about 6:19 p.m. Sunday when the accident occurred. She was not issued a citation by police. The 8-year-old girl involved in the accident, Raven Roy, had some broken bones and was being treated at Southwest Memorial Hospital in Cortez, Lane said. The girls were on the bike together and headed into the path of the vehicle. Both girls were not wearing helmets at the time of the accident, Lane said. Cortez municipal law does not require bike riders to wear helmets, but the chief said law-enforcement officials strongly suggest helmet usage. "It's always a good practice," Lane said. "We always recommend a helmet for biking or motorcycles."
Cyclist dies after hitting auto
By T&D Staff Monday, May 11, 2009
SC - A 53-year-old Orangeburg man died Saturday morning after his crashing his bicycle into an oncoming car, according to Lance Cpl. Scot Edgeworth of the S.C. Highway Patrol. A 1996 four-door Mercury sedan driven by Orangeburg resident Marion Still, Jr., 56, was traveling south on U.S. Highway 301 in the left lane. In the right lane, the bicyclist was going in the same direction. Edgeworth said the bicyclist attempted to make a left turn crossing both lanes when the car struck him, resulting in his death. The incident occurred about a mile south of Orangeburg at 11 a.m. Saturday. Still was not injured in the crash. He was wearing a seat belt. No other passengers were in the vehicle with him, according to Edgeworth.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Houston Chronicle publishes article on Safe Passing Bill
Bill requires drivers to give cyclists enough space
By GARY SCHARRER
Copyright 2009 Houston Chronicle Austin Bureau
May 9, 2009, 8:46PM
TEXAS POLITICS
Blogging Texas politics AUSTIN — Cyclists always worry about close calls with motorists. That’s why many are paying attention to legislation making headway with Texas lawmakers this spring aiming to make drivers more responsible for their vehicles.
Motorists could be charged with a misdemeanor offense if they don’t give cyclists at least three feet passing clearance in most circumstances.
“It’s important for motorists to understand that close counts — just like in horseshoes,” said Robin Stallings, executive director of BikeTexas. “This bill has the potential to educate motorists that getting close is far more dangerous than they expected.”
The Safe Passing Bill (SB 488) also would ban the “right hook,” a dangerous turn made in front of a vulnerable road user — including cyclists, pedestrians, runners, motorcyclists and construction workers. Violations could result in a $500 fine.
Accidents resulting in injury could subject motorists to a Class B misdemeanor, with a maximum penalty of 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine.
Fifty Texas bicycle riders were killed and 274 suffered incapacitating injuries last year, according to a preliminary Texas Department of Transportation report.
Frightening stories
Cindi Snell still has vivid memories of a near collision on a San Antonio street a couple years ago when a young motorist sped up to pass her and then slammed on his brakes to make a sudden turn. He hit another motorist.
“It was one of those instantaneous things where you just go, ‘Oh my gosh, I just narrowly avoided being crushed by a car.’ It was really a narrow escape,” Snell said.
The Senate already has approved the bill, which is awaiting House action before it goes to the governor to be signed into law.
“Everyone that I know who walks, runs, rides, has a moped or an electrified bicycle has had just harrowing stories to tell,” Snell said. “Sometimes, I guess, we’re just hard to notice.”
Growing concerns about clean air and vehicle congestion will drive more people to alternative transportation in the coming years, she said.
“We have to be integrated into the transportation world,” Snell said.
“To know that there was public awareness and support for alternative forms of transportation would be an awesome thing.”
Of the roughly Texas 50 cyclists killed each year, 40 percent involve accidents caused by motorists who didn’t pass safely, said Stallings, of BikeTexas, whose bicycle coalition focuses on increasing awareness and interest in bicycle access, safety and education.
“More people are cycling all the time. We want to make sure that crashes and fatalities don’t go up with that increased cycling,” Stallings said. “The best way to do that is to begin to educate at the earliest levels.”
An estimated 6.6 million Texans are occasional bike riders and about 30,000 belong to some biking organization, Stallings said.
The bill would require commercial vehicles and large trucks to give bicyclists and other vulnerable road users at least six feet of passing clearance.
Read more of the article as well as over 100 comments responding to the article here.
By GARY SCHARRER
Copyright 2009 Houston Chronicle Austin Bureau
May 9, 2009, 8:46PM
TEXAS POLITICS
Blogging Texas politics AUSTIN — Cyclists always worry about close calls with motorists. That’s why many are paying attention to legislation making headway with Texas lawmakers this spring aiming to make drivers more responsible for their vehicles.
Motorists could be charged with a misdemeanor offense if they don’t give cyclists at least three feet passing clearance in most circumstances.
“It’s important for motorists to understand that close counts — just like in horseshoes,” said Robin Stallings, executive director of BikeTexas. “This bill has the potential to educate motorists that getting close is far more dangerous than they expected.”
The Safe Passing Bill (SB 488) also would ban the “right hook,” a dangerous turn made in front of a vulnerable road user — including cyclists, pedestrians, runners, motorcyclists and construction workers. Violations could result in a $500 fine.
Accidents resulting in injury could subject motorists to a Class B misdemeanor, with a maximum penalty of 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine.
Fifty Texas bicycle riders were killed and 274 suffered incapacitating injuries last year, according to a preliminary Texas Department of Transportation report.
Frightening stories
Cindi Snell still has vivid memories of a near collision on a San Antonio street a couple years ago when a young motorist sped up to pass her and then slammed on his brakes to make a sudden turn. He hit another motorist.
“It was one of those instantaneous things where you just go, ‘Oh my gosh, I just narrowly avoided being crushed by a car.’ It was really a narrow escape,” Snell said.
The Senate already has approved the bill, which is awaiting House action before it goes to the governor to be signed into law.
“Everyone that I know who walks, runs, rides, has a moped or an electrified bicycle has had just harrowing stories to tell,” Snell said. “Sometimes, I guess, we’re just hard to notice.”
Growing concerns about clean air and vehicle congestion will drive more people to alternative transportation in the coming years, she said.
“We have to be integrated into the transportation world,” Snell said.
“To know that there was public awareness and support for alternative forms of transportation would be an awesome thing.”
Of the roughly Texas 50 cyclists killed each year, 40 percent involve accidents caused by motorists who didn’t pass safely, said Stallings, of BikeTexas, whose bicycle coalition focuses on increasing awareness and interest in bicycle access, safety and education.
“More people are cycling all the time. We want to make sure that crashes and fatalities don’t go up with that increased cycling,” Stallings said. “The best way to do that is to begin to educate at the earliest levels.”
An estimated 6.6 million Texans are occasional bike riders and about 30,000 belong to some biking organization, Stallings said.
The bill would require commercial vehicles and large trucks to give bicyclists and other vulnerable road users at least six feet of passing clearance.
Read more of the article as well as over 100 comments responding to the article here.
Thursday, May 07, 2009
This week's bicycle accidents and fatalities
Child on Bicycle Killed in Smyrna Crash
Written by Kye Parsons
May 8, 2009 10:14 AM CDT
SMYRNA, Del.- Delaware State Police say a 5-year-old boy riding a bicycle was killed Wednesday when he was run over by the rear tires of a tractor-trailer on Glenwood Avenue in Smyrna. It happened at around about 6:10 p.m. Troopers say an 18-wheel tractor-trailer was traveling west on Glenwood Avenue near School Lane. According to police, 5-year-old Christopher T. Foote Jr. of Smyrna was riding a bicycle north on School Lane and failed to stop at a stop sign. Police say Foote entered the intersection and hit the rear of the trailer. The rear wheels of the trailer then ran over the boy. Foote, who was not wearing a helmet, died of his injuries. The driver of the tractor-trailer, 42-year-old Vaughn E. Wilson of Suffolk, Va, was not hurt. Police say Wilson was wearing a seatbelt and alcohol is not a factor. The roadway was closed for approximately three hours while troopers investigated the accident. Troopers say no charges have been filed in the crash.
British tourist in NY for charity dies in Queens bicycle accident
BY Edgar Sandoval and Simone Weichselbaum
DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITERS
Thursday, May 7th 2009
A British tourist visiting the city to raise money for a charity was killed while riding his bike in Queens Wednesday after colliding with a truck, police said. Stephen Hoadnett, 40, of London, was peddling along Jamaica Ave. and Lefferts Blvd. in Richmond Hill when he collided with a 10-wheeler truck, police sources said. Hoadnett was pronounced dead at Jamaica Hospital minutes after the 2:20 p.m. crash, police said. He was working to earn cash for seeing-eye dogs, sources said, by asking for donations at subway stations. The driver remained on the scene and no criminality was suspected.
Defendant convicted of lesser charge, Leaving the scene of an accident carries up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine
BY LOREN GENSON • Gazette Staff Writer • May 7, 2009
WAVERLY - Sara Bender was found guilty of a lesser charge in connection with the death of a Tour of the Scioto River Valley bicyclist last year after a Pike County jury weighed the evidence against her for less than two hours. Bender, 36, of Lucasville, had been charged with failure to stop after an accident that killed William Crowley, 57, of Northville, Mich., a third-degree felony, but the jury found her guilty of the lesser charge of leaving the scene of an accident. The charge is a first-degree misdemeanor, carrying a sentence of up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. Bender had faced up to five years in prison for Crowley's death if convicted on the original charge, but because the jury issued a special finding that Crowley would have died regardless of her actions after the accident, she will be sentenced on the first-degree misdemeanor. Read more. See another article here.
What happened to DU Law Professor Erik Bluemel?
Glorianne Scott
Denver Legal News Examiner
UPDATE: (May 7, 2009) - Investigation by the Denver Police Department has confirmed that the incident that killed Bluemel was, in fact, a bicycle accident, although no other vehicle was involved, and the cause for the bicycle crash is still unknown. There is some mystery surrounding yesterday’s bicycle incident that killed DU Law Professor Erik Bluemel. We know this: Bluemel was on his bicycle between 15th and Blake Street whenhe became injured. An email to the students today from Law School Dean Beto Juarez mentioned that Bluemel had been assaulted; Denver Police spokesman Sonny Jackson states that the injuries are the result of an accident wherein Bluemel crashed his bicycle. Bluemel was pronounced brain dead just after noon today, and his parents are preparing to donate his organs. Bluemel had joined the University of Denver Sturm College of Law in August and was a professor of administrative law, environmental law, and “indigenous peoples in international law.” Educated at New York University and Georgetown University, Bluemel, 32, brought both enthusiasm and relevant experience to his position. The investigation surrounding the incident which killed Bluemel is ongoing; updates will be posted as they are known.
Police: Investigation into bus, bicycle accident continues
oanow.com
Donathan Prater, Staff Writer
Published: May 6, 2009
The investigation continues into an accident Tuesday that landed a 21-year-old bicyclist in the hospital with non-life threatening injuries and temporarily closed the road. The bicyclist was riding southbound on North Donahue Drive near the Camden Ridge Subdivision when an Auburn City school bus that was dropping off students along a route passed the female bicyclist, who lost her balance and fell. “She’s currently recovering from her injuries at the East Alabama Medical Center,” said Auburn Police Division Capt. Tom Stofer. “We’ve interviewed the driver of the school bus, but are still investigating the accident and will speak to the woman involved as well as any witnesses to the incident,” added Stofer. A portion of North Donahue Drive was closed for about 15 minutes Tuesday afternoon as officers and emergency personnel worked the scene.
Conn. police say boy's bicycle death an accident
The Associated Press
Updated: 05/04/2009
PLAINFIELD, Conn.—Plainfield police say the bicycle death of a 13-year-old boy over the weekend is being investigated as an accident. William Howard died Saturday after he fell off his bike and struck his head at a skateboard park. Police says witnesses told them the boy was trying a maneuver at the top of a ramp at the park on Lions Drive when he lost control and fell, striking his head. Police say they are investigating the incident, but all indications are that it was an accident.
Written by Kye Parsons
May 8, 2009 10:14 AM CDT
SMYRNA, Del.- Delaware State Police say a 5-year-old boy riding a bicycle was killed Wednesday when he was run over by the rear tires of a tractor-trailer on Glenwood Avenue in Smyrna. It happened at around about 6:10 p.m. Troopers say an 18-wheel tractor-trailer was traveling west on Glenwood Avenue near School Lane. According to police, 5-year-old Christopher T. Foote Jr. of Smyrna was riding a bicycle north on School Lane and failed to stop at a stop sign. Police say Foote entered the intersection and hit the rear of the trailer. The rear wheels of the trailer then ran over the boy. Foote, who was not wearing a helmet, died of his injuries. The driver of the tractor-trailer, 42-year-old Vaughn E. Wilson of Suffolk, Va, was not hurt. Police say Wilson was wearing a seatbelt and alcohol is not a factor. The roadway was closed for approximately three hours while troopers investigated the accident. Troopers say no charges have been filed in the crash.
British tourist in NY for charity dies in Queens bicycle accident
BY Edgar Sandoval and Simone Weichselbaum
DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITERS
Thursday, May 7th 2009
A British tourist visiting the city to raise money for a charity was killed while riding his bike in Queens Wednesday after colliding with a truck, police said. Stephen Hoadnett, 40, of London, was peddling along Jamaica Ave. and Lefferts Blvd. in Richmond Hill when he collided with a 10-wheeler truck, police sources said. Hoadnett was pronounced dead at Jamaica Hospital minutes after the 2:20 p.m. crash, police said. He was working to earn cash for seeing-eye dogs, sources said, by asking for donations at subway stations. The driver remained on the scene and no criminality was suspected.
Defendant convicted of lesser charge, Leaving the scene of an accident carries up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine
BY LOREN GENSON • Gazette Staff Writer • May 7, 2009
WAVERLY - Sara Bender was found guilty of a lesser charge in connection with the death of a Tour of the Scioto River Valley bicyclist last year after a Pike County jury weighed the evidence against her for less than two hours. Bender, 36, of Lucasville, had been charged with failure to stop after an accident that killed William Crowley, 57, of Northville, Mich., a third-degree felony, but the jury found her guilty of the lesser charge of leaving the scene of an accident. The charge is a first-degree misdemeanor, carrying a sentence of up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. Bender had faced up to five years in prison for Crowley's death if convicted on the original charge, but because the jury issued a special finding that Crowley would have died regardless of her actions after the accident, she will be sentenced on the first-degree misdemeanor. Read more. See another article here.
What happened to DU Law Professor Erik Bluemel?
Glorianne Scott
Denver Legal News Examiner
UPDATE: (May 7, 2009) - Investigation by the Denver Police Department has confirmed that the incident that killed Bluemel was, in fact, a bicycle accident, although no other vehicle was involved, and the cause for the bicycle crash is still unknown. There is some mystery surrounding yesterday’s bicycle incident that killed DU Law Professor Erik Bluemel. We know this: Bluemel was on his bicycle between 15th and Blake Street whenhe became injured. An email to the students today from Law School Dean Beto Juarez mentioned that Bluemel had been assaulted; Denver Police spokesman Sonny Jackson states that the injuries are the result of an accident wherein Bluemel crashed his bicycle. Bluemel was pronounced brain dead just after noon today, and his parents are preparing to donate his organs. Bluemel had joined the University of Denver Sturm College of Law in August and was a professor of administrative law, environmental law, and “indigenous peoples in international law.” Educated at New York University and Georgetown University, Bluemel, 32, brought both enthusiasm and relevant experience to his position. The investigation surrounding the incident which killed Bluemel is ongoing; updates will be posted as they are known.
Police: Investigation into bus, bicycle accident continues
oanow.com
Donathan Prater, Staff Writer
Published: May 6, 2009
The investigation continues into an accident Tuesday that landed a 21-year-old bicyclist in the hospital with non-life threatening injuries and temporarily closed the road. The bicyclist was riding southbound on North Donahue Drive near the Camden Ridge Subdivision when an Auburn City school bus that was dropping off students along a route passed the female bicyclist, who lost her balance and fell. “She’s currently recovering from her injuries at the East Alabama Medical Center,” said Auburn Police Division Capt. Tom Stofer. “We’ve interviewed the driver of the school bus, but are still investigating the accident and will speak to the woman involved as well as any witnesses to the incident,” added Stofer. A portion of North Donahue Drive was closed for about 15 minutes Tuesday afternoon as officers and emergency personnel worked the scene.
Conn. police say boy's bicycle death an accident
The Associated Press
Updated: 05/04/2009
PLAINFIELD, Conn.—Plainfield police say the bicycle death of a 13-year-old boy over the weekend is being investigated as an accident. William Howard died Saturday after he fell off his bike and struck his head at a skateboard park. Police says witnesses told them the boy was trying a maneuver at the top of a ramp at the park on Lions Drive when he lost control and fell, striking his head. Police say they are investigating the incident, but all indications are that it was an accident.
Saturday, May 02, 2009
Update on bicycle accidents involving serious injuries and fatalities
Bicyclist improving after hit-and-run crash on Highway 9
By Brian Babcock, Saratoga News, May 1, 2009
Ashleigh Jackson, the 24-year-old San Jose woman who was the victim of a hit-and-run on Highway 9 in Saratoga on April 19, is making a slow but steady recovery, said her boyfriend, David Nelson. Jackson, who is being treated at Valley Medical Center for trauma sustained to her brain, is conscious and eating, and she was transferred out of the intensive care unit late last week, Nelson said. Although she has motor movement throughout her body, he said, Jackson still has some paralysis on her left side. "But her left side is getting better," Nelson said, adding that doctors are regularly testing her brain. Jackson is a competitive cyclist for Webcor/Alto Velo, a bicycle racing club based in Silicon Valley, and regularly rides on Highway 9. Read more.
Bicycle accident still under investigation by Duncan police
Derrick Miller, The Duncan Banner, April 28, 2009
DUNCAN — A Duncan man was listed in critical condition after a van collided with the bicycle he was riding Monday evening. Master Officer Layle Baker of the Duncan Police Department said, “A white van was northbound on Chisholm Trail Parkway, turning on Clayton, and a man on a bicycle was heading southbound, also turning on Clayton. “They collided during the turn.” Following the accident, Jason Galus was taken by American Medical Response to Duncan Regional Hospital (DRH). From there, he was transported to OU Medical Center, said Megan Sanner, who is a media coordinator for DRH. As of 1 p.m. Tuesday, Galus was listed in critical condition, OU Medical Center media contact Kim Eason said. “He had injuries that were rather substantial,” Baker said. Baker said he is waiting on a change in the man’s condition before determining the next step in the investigation. An accident report will then be written, he said.
Truck driver arrested in hit-run fatality
Associated Press - April 28, 2009
LAROSE, La. (AP) - State troopers have arrested a truck driver from Henderson and booked him with felony hit & run in the death of a bicycle rider Sunday. In addition to the hit & run charge, state police say 31-year-old Lina James Knott was booked in the Lafourche Parish Detention Center on Monday with obstruction of justice. Investigators say Knott admitted hitting 21-year-old Jose J. Licona, of Larose, and removing the bicycle and hiding it behind a bait shop where he delivered products. Troopers say Licona was traveling south on the Intracoastal overpass on La. Highway 308 when he was struck and killed. Information from: The Advocate, http://www.2theadvocate.com.
Bicyclist dies in collision with pickup
KPAM 860, Apr 28, 2009
A 49-year-old man riding a bicycle the wrong way on a one-way street was struck by a pickup and killed Monday afternoon in Northeast Portland. Portland police said Cary Bernick of Southeast Portland died at the scene. He was not wearing a helmet. The collision happened near 106th and Weidler about 5:15 p.m. Portland police said Bernick was riding against traffic on the opposite side of the street from a bike lane when he was hit by the truck. The driver of the pickup is cooperating with police.
Albany teen injured in bicycle accident
CBS 6 WRGB, April 27, 2009
A 14-year-old Albany teen in listed in stable condition at Albany Med after a bicycle accident. Colonie Police say that Carlos Perez rode his bike into the path of an oncoming SUV on Central Ave around 6 p.m. tonight. The SUV hit Perez, throwing him from his bike. He hit the hood of the vehicle and fell onto the pavement. Police say that Perez attempted to cross Central Ave in an area that is not designated for pedestrians and while the oncoming car had a green light.
Crash kills Ken-Ton pupil riding his bike to school
By Janice Habuda, The Buffalo News, April 27, 2009
A sixth-grader riding his bicycle to school this morning died in a collision with a pickup truck, according to Town of Tonawanda authorities. The accident occurred at approximately 7:35 a.m., near the intersection of Wendel Avenue and Cambridge Street. The Kenmore-Town of Tonawanda School District identified the student as James Moore, 11, who attended Benjamin Franklin Middle School. Two of his siblings also attend the school. "James was well-liked and had an excellent sense of humor," said School Superintendent Mark P. Mondanaro. "He was involved in the Recycling Club and the Youth to Youth Club." Further, James was involved with his church youth group and played in the church basketball league. Mondanaro said fellow students and staff at the school were informed about the accident by a crisis team. Extra school counselors and psychologists are assembling at the school, where a care center will be established to offer grief counseling, the superintendent said.
Trial in bicyclist's death set to begin Monday
By Randy Ludlow, The Columbus Dispatch, April 27, 2009
A Lucasville woman is scheduled to go on trial next Monday in the hit-skip death of a bicyclist participating in a popular southern Ohio bicycle tour. Sara Bender, 36, is charged with leaving the scene of a fatal accident in the May 11, 2008 death of William Crowley, 57, a physician from Northville, Mich. Jury selection is set to begin Monday in Pike County Common Pleas Court in Waverly, with the trial to last three to four days, Prosecutor Rob Junk said today. Crowley was riding north on Rt. 23 when he was hit from behind and killed. Bender is charged with leaving the scene and then returning and telling a trooper she thought she had struck a sign. The charge is third-degree felony carrying one to five years in prison. Crowley's death was the first traffic-related fatality in the 47-year history of the Tour of the Scioto River Valley between Columbus and Portsmouth. About 3,000 riders are expected for this year's tour on May 9-10.
By Brian Babcock, Saratoga News, May 1, 2009
Ashleigh Jackson, the 24-year-old San Jose woman who was the victim of a hit-and-run on Highway 9 in Saratoga on April 19, is making a slow but steady recovery, said her boyfriend, David Nelson. Jackson, who is being treated at Valley Medical Center for trauma sustained to her brain, is conscious and eating, and she was transferred out of the intensive care unit late last week, Nelson said. Although she has motor movement throughout her body, he said, Jackson still has some paralysis on her left side. "But her left side is getting better," Nelson said, adding that doctors are regularly testing her brain. Jackson is a competitive cyclist for Webcor/Alto Velo, a bicycle racing club based in Silicon Valley, and regularly rides on Highway 9. Read more.
Bicycle accident still under investigation by Duncan police
Derrick Miller, The Duncan Banner, April 28, 2009
DUNCAN — A Duncan man was listed in critical condition after a van collided with the bicycle he was riding Monday evening. Master Officer Layle Baker of the Duncan Police Department said, “A white van was northbound on Chisholm Trail Parkway, turning on Clayton, and a man on a bicycle was heading southbound, also turning on Clayton. “They collided during the turn.” Following the accident, Jason Galus was taken by American Medical Response to Duncan Regional Hospital (DRH). From there, he was transported to OU Medical Center, said Megan Sanner, who is a media coordinator for DRH. As of 1 p.m. Tuesday, Galus was listed in critical condition, OU Medical Center media contact Kim Eason said. “He had injuries that were rather substantial,” Baker said. Baker said he is waiting on a change in the man’s condition before determining the next step in the investigation. An accident report will then be written, he said.
Truck driver arrested in hit-run fatality
Associated Press - April 28, 2009
LAROSE, La. (AP) - State troopers have arrested a truck driver from Henderson and booked him with felony hit & run in the death of a bicycle rider Sunday. In addition to the hit & run charge, state police say 31-year-old Lina James Knott was booked in the Lafourche Parish Detention Center on Monday with obstruction of justice. Investigators say Knott admitted hitting 21-year-old Jose J. Licona, of Larose, and removing the bicycle and hiding it behind a bait shop where he delivered products. Troopers say Licona was traveling south on the Intracoastal overpass on La. Highway 308 when he was struck and killed. Information from: The Advocate, http://www.2theadvocate.com.
Bicyclist dies in collision with pickup
KPAM 860, Apr 28, 2009
A 49-year-old man riding a bicycle the wrong way on a one-way street was struck by a pickup and killed Monday afternoon in Northeast Portland. Portland police said Cary Bernick of Southeast Portland died at the scene. He was not wearing a helmet. The collision happened near 106th and Weidler about 5:15 p.m. Portland police said Bernick was riding against traffic on the opposite side of the street from a bike lane when he was hit by the truck. The driver of the pickup is cooperating with police.
Albany teen injured in bicycle accident
CBS 6 WRGB, April 27, 2009
A 14-year-old Albany teen in listed in stable condition at Albany Med after a bicycle accident. Colonie Police say that Carlos Perez rode his bike into the path of an oncoming SUV on Central Ave around 6 p.m. tonight. The SUV hit Perez, throwing him from his bike. He hit the hood of the vehicle and fell onto the pavement. Police say that Perez attempted to cross Central Ave in an area that is not designated for pedestrians and while the oncoming car had a green light.
Crash kills Ken-Ton pupil riding his bike to school
By Janice Habuda, The Buffalo News, April 27, 2009
A sixth-grader riding his bicycle to school this morning died in a collision with a pickup truck, according to Town of Tonawanda authorities. The accident occurred at approximately 7:35 a.m., near the intersection of Wendel Avenue and Cambridge Street. The Kenmore-Town of Tonawanda School District identified the student as James Moore, 11, who attended Benjamin Franklin Middle School. Two of his siblings also attend the school. "James was well-liked and had an excellent sense of humor," said School Superintendent Mark P. Mondanaro. "He was involved in the Recycling Club and the Youth to Youth Club." Further, James was involved with his church youth group and played in the church basketball league. Mondanaro said fellow students and staff at the school were informed about the accident by a crisis team. Extra school counselors and psychologists are assembling at the school, where a care center will be established to offer grief counseling, the superintendent said.
Trial in bicyclist's death set to begin Monday
By Randy Ludlow, The Columbus Dispatch, April 27, 2009
A Lucasville woman is scheduled to go on trial next Monday in the hit-skip death of a bicyclist participating in a popular southern Ohio bicycle tour. Sara Bender, 36, is charged with leaving the scene of a fatal accident in the May 11, 2008 death of William Crowley, 57, a physician from Northville, Mich. Jury selection is set to begin Monday in Pike County Common Pleas Court in Waverly, with the trial to last three to four days, Prosecutor Rob Junk said today. Crowley was riding north on Rt. 23 when he was hit from behind and killed. Bender is charged with leaving the scene and then returning and telling a trooper she thought she had struck a sign. The charge is third-degree felony carrying one to five years in prison. Crowley's death was the first traffic-related fatality in the 47-year history of the Tour of the Scioto River Valley between Columbus and Portsmouth. About 3,000 riders are expected for this year's tour on May 9-10.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Cyclist fatalities within the last week..
This week has been a very upsetting one for Texas cyclists with the death of Houston cyclist, Leigh Boone, the accident involving local cyclist, Anthony Kaim, and the struggles with the Safe Passing Bill in the House. I read about Anthony's accident on Austin 360's Fit City blog and just now took a stroll on over to read the comments. I was quite taken aback by the number of comments saying how lucky he is to be alive (which is true) and the sentiment that his accident just goes to prove that cyclists do not belong on highways. Why does it have to be such an uphill battle all the time?
Thoughts go out to the families, friends and communities of the following cyclists who died in or as the result of this week.
Chandler man dies in car-bicycle accident
by Cathryn Creno - Apr. 17, 2009 09:48 AM
The Arizona Republic
A 43-year-old Chandler man died Sunday after his bicycle and a car collided on Maricopa Road on the Gila River Indian Community, tribal police said Thursday. Alia Maisonet, community public information officer, said Michael Gray was dead at the scene, in front of the Koli Equestrian Center, when medics arrived about 3 p.m. The Maricopa County Medical Examiners Office said Thursday that Gray died of "multiple blunt force injuries." "The investigation revealed the victim was struck by a vehicle driven by a white male non-community member," she said in a statement. "Alcohol may have been a contributing factor."
Stuart Man Killed In Bicycle Accident
posted 04/17/09 7:29am
Arpelar, OK - (AP) A 72-year-old Hughes County man has been killed in a bicycle accident in Pittsburg County. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol says Charles Gore of Stuart died in the accident on U.S. Highway 270 near Arpelar in western Pittsburg County. Troopers say Gore was riding westbound on the highway when the bike overturned and he hit his head on the pavement. Investigators say the state medical examiner will determine the exact cause of death.
Canton man killed in bicycle accident
By Beacon Journal staff
POSTED: 09:04 a.m. EDT, Apr 13, 2009
A 49-year-old Stark County man died Sunday after crashing his bicycle on South Royal Avenue Northeast near 25th Street. Michael Callaway of Kalahari Street Northeast in Canton was riding southbound when when the right pedal of the bike apparently struck a clay sewer pipe, causing him to fall, the county coroner's office said today. There were no witnesses to the accident. Callaway, who was found lying in the street, was pronounced dead at Mercy Medical Center at 6:16 p.m.
West Palm Beach area school boy killed by SUV driver.
2009-04-16 01:18:51 (GMT)
JusticeNewsFlash.com - Justice News Flash, Personal Injury
West Palm Beach, FL (JusticeNewsFlash.com)–An SUV killed a little boy riding his bicycle to school this morning in Palm Beach County, Florida. Julio Chino was on his way to Berkshire Elementary School where he was a fifth grade student, when the fatal SUV accident occurred. The automobile accident took place at the intersection of Military Trail and Summit Blvd. According to the Palm Beach Post, the tragedy happened around 7:41 a.m., when Chino was crossing traffic. As the young school boy rode his bicycle across the street at Summit, he was hit by the SUV truck driver. Authorities stated the boy had been struck, thrown underneath the SUV, and dragged over 25 feet. Read more.
No citations expected in fatal bike crash south of Madison
By Tom Held of the Journal Sentinel
Apr. 17, 2009 4:47 p.m.
Based on the preliminary investigation, authorities expect no citations will be issued in the fatal car and bicycle collision in southern Dane County Thursday. It appears the cyclist, a 68-year-old woman, pedaled into the path of a car that was southbound on Highway 14, at the intersection with Rutland Rd., according to Elise Schaffer, public information officer for the sheriff's department. The cyclist was eastbound on Rutland Rd., less than a quarter mile from home, and appeared to be crossing into the northbound lane of Highway 14. She died of the injuries suffered in the crash about 3 p.m. Thursday. The identity of the victim was not made available Friday morning. The motorist, a 73-year-old woman from Beloit, had little opportunity to avoid the cyclist, according to Schaffer. The Dane County victim is the first cyclist killed on a Wisconsin roadway in 2009. The Department of Transportation recorded eight cyclist fatalities in 2008, slightly below the five-year average of 11.
Please note that there are probably more fatalities that my alert didn't pick up. Please comment with others. Thanks.
Thoughts go out to the families, friends and communities of the following cyclists who died in or as the result of this week.
Chandler man dies in car-bicycle accident
by Cathryn Creno - Apr. 17, 2009 09:48 AM
The Arizona Republic
A 43-year-old Chandler man died Sunday after his bicycle and a car collided on Maricopa Road on the Gila River Indian Community, tribal police said Thursday. Alia Maisonet, community public information officer, said Michael Gray was dead at the scene, in front of the Koli Equestrian Center, when medics arrived about 3 p.m. The Maricopa County Medical Examiners Office said Thursday that Gray died of "multiple blunt force injuries." "The investigation revealed the victim was struck by a vehicle driven by a white male non-community member," she said in a statement. "Alcohol may have been a contributing factor."
Stuart Man Killed In Bicycle Accident
posted 04/17/09 7:29am
Arpelar, OK - (AP) A 72-year-old Hughes County man has been killed in a bicycle accident in Pittsburg County. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol says Charles Gore of Stuart died in the accident on U.S. Highway 270 near Arpelar in western Pittsburg County. Troopers say Gore was riding westbound on the highway when the bike overturned and he hit his head on the pavement. Investigators say the state medical examiner will determine the exact cause of death.
Canton man killed in bicycle accident
By Beacon Journal staff
POSTED: 09:04 a.m. EDT, Apr 13, 2009
A 49-year-old Stark County man died Sunday after crashing his bicycle on South Royal Avenue Northeast near 25th Street. Michael Callaway of Kalahari Street Northeast in Canton was riding southbound when when the right pedal of the bike apparently struck a clay sewer pipe, causing him to fall, the county coroner's office said today. There were no witnesses to the accident. Callaway, who was found lying in the street, was pronounced dead at Mercy Medical Center at 6:16 p.m.
West Palm Beach area school boy killed by SUV driver.
2009-04-16 01:18:51 (GMT)
JusticeNewsFlash.com - Justice News Flash, Personal Injury
West Palm Beach, FL (JusticeNewsFlash.com)–An SUV killed a little boy riding his bicycle to school this morning in Palm Beach County, Florida. Julio Chino was on his way to Berkshire Elementary School where he was a fifth grade student, when the fatal SUV accident occurred. The automobile accident took place at the intersection of Military Trail and Summit Blvd. According to the Palm Beach Post, the tragedy happened around 7:41 a.m., when Chino was crossing traffic. As the young school boy rode his bicycle across the street at Summit, he was hit by the SUV truck driver. Authorities stated the boy had been struck, thrown underneath the SUV, and dragged over 25 feet. Read more.
No citations expected in fatal bike crash south of Madison
By Tom Held of the Journal Sentinel
Apr. 17, 2009 4:47 p.m.
Based on the preliminary investigation, authorities expect no citations will be issued in the fatal car and bicycle collision in southern Dane County Thursday. It appears the cyclist, a 68-year-old woman, pedaled into the path of a car that was southbound on Highway 14, at the intersection with Rutland Rd., according to Elise Schaffer, public information officer for the sheriff's department. The cyclist was eastbound on Rutland Rd., less than a quarter mile from home, and appeared to be crossing into the northbound lane of Highway 14. She died of the injuries suffered in the crash about 3 p.m. Thursday. The identity of the victim was not made available Friday morning. The motorist, a 73-year-old woman from Beloit, had little opportunity to avoid the cyclist, according to Schaffer. The Dane County victim is the first cyclist killed on a Wisconsin roadway in 2009. The Department of Transportation recorded eight cyclist fatalities in 2008, slightly below the five-year average of 11.
Please note that there are probably more fatalities that my alert didn't pick up. Please comment with others. Thanks.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Cyclist hit on Loop 360 in ICU
Cyclist hit on Loop 360 in ICUBy Pamela LeBlanc | Monday, April 13, 2009, 11:37 AM
From Fit City Blog on Austin 360
Anthony Kaim, the cyclist hit on Loop 360 at the Pennybacker Bridge Saturday morning, is scheduled for three surgeries this week but has no brain injuries, according to his wife.
Kaim broke several ribs and his left hip, shattered his pelvis, fractured his spine in four or five places and broke his jaw in three places, Heidi Kaim told me this morning. He’s in intensive care at University Medical Center at Brackenridge.
“I think it’s a miracle he’s as good as he is,” she says. “He’s actually conscious and talking and in his right mind. He’s asking a lot of questions because he is a lawyer.”
Anthony Kaim was riding southbound on Loop 360 when he apparently ran over debris or hit a bump, which caused him to lose control of his handlebars and hit the cement barrier on the right side of the road. He bounced back into traffic on the left and was hit by a car.
“It wasn’t like anybody was at fault, it was just a freak accident,” Heidi Kaim says.
Anthony Kaim is a Category 3 cyclist who rode on the University of Texas cycling team and now competes with the Gulf Coast Cycling Association team. He had recently finished law school and works as a clerk for a Fifth Circuit Judge in Austin.
He is scheduled for two surgeries Tuesday and another on Wednesday.
“He would just want to thank everybody for keeping him in their thoughts and prayers,” she says. “He’s touched by everybody rallying around.”
She’s sure he’ll be back on the bike as soon as he can. “It’ll take physical therapy for a long time. They’re thinking in six months he can be slightly active again. It’ll be maybe a year before he’s able to ride.”
Joseph LaFico was in a group of cyclists about 15 minutes behind Kaim’s pack. When he arrived at the accident scene, emergency crews had closed the roadway.
He describes Kaim as a “very experienced cyclist, definitely not a newbie. Just a good, solid guy who rides under the radar.”
Hang in there Anthony!
From Fit City Blog on Austin 360
Anthony Kaim, the cyclist hit on Loop 360 at the Pennybacker Bridge Saturday morning, is scheduled for three surgeries this week but has no brain injuries, according to his wife.
Kaim broke several ribs and his left hip, shattered his pelvis, fractured his spine in four or five places and broke his jaw in three places, Heidi Kaim told me this morning. He’s in intensive care at University Medical Center at Brackenridge.
“I think it’s a miracle he’s as good as he is,” she says. “He’s actually conscious and talking and in his right mind. He’s asking a lot of questions because he is a lawyer.”
Anthony Kaim was riding southbound on Loop 360 when he apparently ran over debris or hit a bump, which caused him to lose control of his handlebars and hit the cement barrier on the right side of the road. He bounced back into traffic on the left and was hit by a car.
“It wasn’t like anybody was at fault, it was just a freak accident,” Heidi Kaim says.
Anthony Kaim is a Category 3 cyclist who rode on the University of Texas cycling team and now competes with the Gulf Coast Cycling Association team. He had recently finished law school and works as a clerk for a Fifth Circuit Judge in Austin.
He is scheduled for two surgeries Tuesday and another on Wednesday.
“He would just want to thank everybody for keeping him in their thoughts and prayers,” she says. “He’s touched by everybody rallying around.”
She’s sure he’ll be back on the bike as soon as he can. “It’ll take physical therapy for a long time. They’re thinking in six months he can be slightly active again. It’ll be maybe a year before he’s able to ride.”
Joseph LaFico was in a group of cyclists about 15 minutes behind Kaim’s pack. When he arrived at the accident scene, emergency crews had closed the roadway.
He describes Kaim as a “very experienced cyclist, definitely not a newbie. Just a good, solid guy who rides under the radar.”
Hang in there Anthony!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Houston cyclist dies from injuries
What a horrible tragedy.. Thoughts and prayers go out to Leigh Boone's family and friends.
Bicyclist injured in HFD accident dies
Upgraded charges possible for cited driver
By CINDY GEORGE, MOISES MENDOZA and LINDSAY WISE
Copyright 2009 Houston Chronicle
Posted April 11, 2009, 9:16PM
Leigh Boone, 29, an executive assistant at the Houston Center for Photography, was hurt when a ladder truck hit her bicycle. The 29-year-old bicyclist who was crushed beneath a Houston Fire Department ladder truck in an accident involving two firetrucks last month died early Saturday afternoon. Leigh Boone was pronounced dead at 12:10 p.m., said Memorial Hermann Hospital spokeswoman Alex Rodriguez. Boone had been in critical condition for two weeks with serious head injuries she sustained when a 40-ton ladder truck toppled and crushed her bike on March 30. Authorities found the ladder truck driver, Warren Ducote, at fault for the crash that injured 11 people. They say he ran a red light. A police official said on Saturday it was too early to tell whether Ducote would face criminal charges.
Read more.
Bicyclist injured in HFD accident dies
Upgraded charges possible for cited driver
By CINDY GEORGE, MOISES MENDOZA and LINDSAY WISE
Copyright 2009 Houston Chronicle
Posted April 11, 2009, 9:16PM
Leigh Boone, 29, an executive assistant at the Houston Center for Photography, was hurt when a ladder truck hit her bicycle. The 29-year-old bicyclist who was crushed beneath a Houston Fire Department ladder truck in an accident involving two firetrucks last month died early Saturday afternoon. Leigh Boone was pronounced dead at 12:10 p.m., said Memorial Hermann Hospital spokeswoman Alex Rodriguez. Boone had been in critical condition for two weeks with serious head injuries she sustained when a 40-ton ladder truck toppled and crushed her bike on March 30. Authorities found the ladder truck driver, Warren Ducote, at fault for the crash that injured 11 people. They say he ran a red light. A police official said on Saturday it was too early to tell whether Ducote would face criminal charges.
Read more.
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
Cyclist fatalities within the last week
One only has to read the headlines to realize that greater enforcement and driver education is needed here in Texas and across the nation. I have decided to start posting headlines featuring cyclist fatalities from collisions with motorists. I am doing this for two reasons: 1) to honor the cyclists who lost their lives doing what they love, and 2) to raise awareness that these fatalities demand increased education about a motorist's responsibilities to cyclists and other road users as well as enforcement of traffic laws. Thoughts and prayers go out to the families, friends and communities of the following cyclists who were killed in Lincoln, Nebraska and Elon, North Carolina:
Bicyclist dies after collision with car at 23rd and Q
By CATHERINE HUDDLE / Lincoln Journal Star
Tuesday, Apr 07, 2009 - 04:39:15 pm CDT
Myles Davis Jr. was riding his bike Monday morning when he collided with a car at 23rd and Q streets. Davis, 46, was taken to BryanLGH Medical Center West, where he was pronounced dead. “He rode his bike everywhere, he just loved it,” said friend Derek Shotkoski. “It was his life.” Shotkoski said he met Davis about three years ago, when Davis lived in a building he managed, and they worked together at Lincoln Industries. Lincoln Police Officer Katie Flood said Davis was riding south on 23rd Street, and Cristie Salinas, 49, of 840 Robert St., was driving a Volkswagen Jetta west on Q Street when the accident happened just before 6 a.m. Flood said police likely would not issue a ticket because Davis had a stop sign.
Woman charged with professor's death
April 7, 2009 - 3:48 PM
Times-News
"ELON - A driver who struck and killed an Elon University professor while he was riding a bicycle on the shoulder of University Drive was charged Tuesday.Elon Police Department charged Mary Davis Murphy, 82, of Hebron Church Road, Mebane, with misdemeanor death by vehicle, according to a news release. Murphy was driving a 2005 Buick at the time of the incident, which happened at 6:47 p.m. Friday. Murphy's car crossed over onto the shoulder about eight-tenths of a mile past where N.C. 87, Haggard Avenue and University Drive meet and where Edgar "Eugene" Gooch, 57, of Westover Terrace, Burlington, was riding a bicycle. Gooch, a professor and specialist in organic chemistry, was hired to teach at Elon University in 1988. A memorial service was held for him at Elon Community Church Tuesday morning."
Bicyclist dies after collision with car at 23rd and Q
By CATHERINE HUDDLE / Lincoln Journal Star
Tuesday, Apr 07, 2009 - 04:39:15 pm CDT
Myles Davis Jr. was riding his bike Monday morning when he collided with a car at 23rd and Q streets. Davis, 46, was taken to BryanLGH Medical Center West, where he was pronounced dead. “He rode his bike everywhere, he just loved it,” said friend Derek Shotkoski. “It was his life.” Shotkoski said he met Davis about three years ago, when Davis lived in a building he managed, and they worked together at Lincoln Industries. Lincoln Police Officer Katie Flood said Davis was riding south on 23rd Street, and Cristie Salinas, 49, of 840 Robert St., was driving a Volkswagen Jetta west on Q Street when the accident happened just before 6 a.m. Flood said police likely would not issue a ticket because Davis had a stop sign.
Woman charged with professor's death
April 7, 2009 - 3:48 PM
Times-News
"ELON - A driver who struck and killed an Elon University professor while he was riding a bicycle on the shoulder of University Drive was charged Tuesday.Elon Police Department charged Mary Davis Murphy, 82, of Hebron Church Road, Mebane, with misdemeanor death by vehicle, according to a news release. Murphy was driving a 2005 Buick at the time of the incident, which happened at 6:47 p.m. Friday. Murphy's car crossed over onto the shoulder about eight-tenths of a mile past where N.C. 87, Haggard Avenue and University Drive meet and where Edgar "Eugene" Gooch, 57, of Westover Terrace, Burlington, was riding a bicycle. Gooch, a professor and specialist in organic chemistry, was hired to teach at Elon University in 1988. A memorial service was held for him at Elon Community Church Tuesday morning."
Sunday, March 29, 2009
An Investigative Cyclist Sting
I really have to applaud cyclist Jeff Frings, for his advocacy and efforts to educate law enforcement and the general public about giving cyclists at least 3 feet when passing. He's a Fox News photographer up in Wisconsin who in his personal time, rides a bike outfitted with cameras so that he can capture just how dangerous some drivers are and how close they pass. A cyclist sting if you will.
His cameras capture exactly what cyclists face while traveling on the roads. I see it all the time while driving and also while riding my bike. I witnessed a poignant example of it on the drive home Friday. As I was traveling south on Lamar in my car, I saw two ladies riding their bikes very close to the curb. As I came upon them, I signaled and moved over into the left lane to pass and then returned to the right. While doing so, I noticed the huge SUV behind me continue in the right lane and passing the cyclists way too close. Her SUV practically took up the entire lane. What really peeves me is that she could have easily followed me into the left lane but declined to do so. Not only did she do this once, she did it twice. Again, after the cyclists caught up with us at the next stoplight. I repeated the lane change and she continued on finally passing me. I honked at her to get her attention but she never even acknowledged me nor did she honk at me when I kept changing lanes to navigate around the cyclists. I wish I would have had a camera like this guy or even a tape recorder so that I could safely drive while taking down her license plate.
The video below documents his experiences and also the issues he faces when he reports the behavior to prosecutors and law enforcement. Wisconscin has a 3 foot law but it's rarely enforced because a lot of law enforcement don't even know about it. He hopes to change that. What better way than an expose in the media. Although we in Texas are very close to having such legislation, it's only half the battle. We still must advocate for education and enforcement.
His cameras capture exactly what cyclists face while traveling on the roads. I see it all the time while driving and also while riding my bike. I witnessed a poignant example of it on the drive home Friday. As I was traveling south on Lamar in my car, I saw two ladies riding their bikes very close to the curb. As I came upon them, I signaled and moved over into the left lane to pass and then returned to the right. While doing so, I noticed the huge SUV behind me continue in the right lane and passing the cyclists way too close. Her SUV practically took up the entire lane. What really peeves me is that she could have easily followed me into the left lane but declined to do so. Not only did she do this once, she did it twice. Again, after the cyclists caught up with us at the next stoplight. I repeated the lane change and she continued on finally passing me. I honked at her to get her attention but she never even acknowledged me nor did she honk at me when I kept changing lanes to navigate around the cyclists. I wish I would have had a camera like this guy or even a tape recorder so that I could safely drive while taking down her license plate.
The video below documents his experiences and also the issues he faces when he reports the behavior to prosecutors and law enforcement. Wisconscin has a 3 foot law but it's rarely enforced because a lot of law enforcement don't even know about it. He hopes to change that. What better way than an expose in the media. Although we in Texas are very close to having such legislation, it's only half the battle. We still must advocate for education and enforcement.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
What would you do
This past weekend I met a fellow cyclist who recently had been struck by a car. He was riding downtown and as he was signalling to merge from the right lane into the left lane to turn, he made eye contact with a motorist just behind him in the left lane (the driver later will say he didn't see him). He then made his move and as he did so, the driver gunned it apparently trying to deter the cyclist from getting in the lane ahead of him. Unfortunately, the driver misjudged and struck the cyclist. Luckily he wasn't hurt badly. What was even more shocking was the driver's reaction - he got out and started yelling at the cyclist who was lying on the ground writhing in pain and trying to get out of harm's way. The police arrived and did not even issue a citation for rear ending the cyclist. Incredible! I'm sure this would be a different story if there were two cars involved instead of a bicycle and a car.
Even more incredible is that the cyclist did not pursue further legal action. The cyclist had the driver's information as well as several witnesses who could vouch for the driver's negligence. Why wouldn't he want to pursue a case - he had evidence - lots of it. I asked him and was surprised by his answer that he didn't really have much damages to recover against the driver. I assume he was talking about financial damages because in my opinion, he had damages. He experienced a lot of physical pain resulting from the trauma of being hit by a car as well struggling thereafter with a phobia of riding in traffic.
I'm not sure what I would do if I were in his situation. I would like to think that I would endeavor to pursue any and all legal courses of action to raise awareness of the issues that cyclists increasingly face as more and more start riding and protesting the unavailability of bike lanes, lack of enforcement when traffic laws are violated by cyclists and motorists, as well as safety concerns. In the wake of the election and in anticipation of the new administration, transportation is in the spotlight. Now is the time to mobilize and stand together. Lives are and will continue to be at risk and so is our emotional well being. I myself have been buzzed and cut off countless times and believe me, it's always difficult to keep riding after such a close encounter. But still, I'm curious, what would you do if you got hit by a car and only had minor injuries? And for those of you who have been hit, what did you do?
Even more incredible is that the cyclist did not pursue further legal action. The cyclist had the driver's information as well as several witnesses who could vouch for the driver's negligence. Why wouldn't he want to pursue a case - he had evidence - lots of it. I asked him and was surprised by his answer that he didn't really have much damages to recover against the driver. I assume he was talking about financial damages because in my opinion, he had damages. He experienced a lot of physical pain resulting from the trauma of being hit by a car as well struggling thereafter with a phobia of riding in traffic.
I'm not sure what I would do if I were in his situation. I would like to think that I would endeavor to pursue any and all legal courses of action to raise awareness of the issues that cyclists increasingly face as more and more start riding and protesting the unavailability of bike lanes, lack of enforcement when traffic laws are violated by cyclists and motorists, as well as safety concerns. In the wake of the election and in anticipation of the new administration, transportation is in the spotlight. Now is the time to mobilize and stand together. Lives are and will continue to be at risk and so is our emotional well being. I myself have been buzzed and cut off countless times and believe me, it's always difficult to keep riding after such a close encounter. But still, I'm curious, what would you do if you got hit by a car and only had minor injuries? And for those of you who have been hit, what did you do?
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