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Witnesses say cyclist hit by car ran light
Witnesses say a cyclist who collided with a car in downtown Austin last night ran a red light.
The 22-year-old cyclist was critically injured in the wreck that happened about 10:15 p.m. at the intersection of Fifth and Nueces streets. He was taken to University Medical Center at Brackenridge.
This makes me nuts. Every time I ride my bike to work, I see cyclists blowing through stoplights. I know it’s tempting to roll on through, but if for nothing other than improving relations between cyclists and motorists, bike riders should stop at every light and every stop sign.
A motorist who hits another car after running a light might not suffer any life-threatening consequences. A cyclist who collides with a car probably won’t be so lucky.
Oddly, the accident occurred just as the City Council was wrapping up a discussion about the city’s proposed new Bicycle Master Plan. Dozens of cyclists showed up for the meeting, voicing their support for improved bicycle infrastructure throughout the city.
I wonder if the cyclist had attended the meeting.
Pay attention, folks.
And keep the injured cyclist in your thoughts.
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By t.k. o'brian
May 22, 2009 3:02 PM | Link to this
Ironically the day before, during the Ride of Silence to remember those killed while cycling, I almost got taken out on my commute home by an innattentive driver. I do the official bike-to-work Friday each year too, but was taking part in bike to work week and commuting 17 mi each way for the 1st time ever for a whole week.
While biking north on Shoal Creek Blvd I came to a 4-way stop around 45th or slightly north of there. Shook me up so I forget the exact intersection. Anyway, I waited as the cars at 3 o’clock, 12 o’clock, and 9 o’clock took there turns. I was alone with no cars behind me and had on a flourescent “hunters” orange shirt. As I started through the intersection a car at my 3 o’clock abruptly took off. I slammed on my brakes and the car whoshed about 2 feet from my front tire. The elderly driver NEVER saw me, never turned her head. I scanned the face of all the drivers and, like me, all were shaking their heads in disbelieve.
It’s too easy to do everything right and still get hurt. Why act stupidly and intentionally put yourself in danger? Let’s ALL be safe & alert in your cars & on your bikes. Lives depend on it.