Four bicyclists were killed and another three were hospitalized in automobile collisions in Oregon this week.
An 81-year-old man died after his bicycle swerved in to the southbound lane of U.S. Highway 101 near Garibaldi, Oregon, crashing into the back of a passing truck’s loaded log pole trailer.
Last weekend, an 18-year-old recent Clackamas High School graduate died in a hit-and-run collision in Clackamas County, Oregon.
And last Wednesday night, three cyclists riding on a country road in Washington County, Oregon, were struck from behind by an automobile.
None of the three bicyclists wore a helmet. None of their bicycles had lights or reflectors, as required by Oregon law. One of the cyclists, a young man expecting his first child, died as a result of the crash; two others are hospitalized.
In Seattle, there has been at least three hit-and-run bicycle crashes in the last week, all resulting in potentially catastrophic injuries.
These tragedies serve as a reminder for all drivers and cyclists: share the road. Obey the laws. Every person riding a bicycle on a public road is subject to the same laws, and also has the same rights and duties as the driver of any other vehicle.
Review these bicycle safety tips for a refresher on how to keep yourself and others safe on the road. If you’re a parent, remember to teach bicycle helmet safety to your children, and consider Bike Safety Education classes from the Bicycle Transportation Alliance.
