You never expect a casual trail ride to end with a crash. But for this cyclist, one careless driver and a routine intersection nearly changed everything – thankfully, it was all caught on camera.
What happened before the incident and why do you record your ride?
My brother and I had been on a ride on a local trail and were looking for someplace to have lunch. There was a restaurant on the opposite side of the street from us. He crossed at the crosswalk. The light change before I got there, so I waited. A car stopped opposite. When the light changed, we both proceeded into the intersection and the car turned into me. I record my ride because so often people get hit and there are no witnesses. Also, it helps get the facts straight if there is an incident.
When do you feel most vulnerable as a cyclist?
I am less worried about cars approaching from the rear than I am about cars at intersections. In this case, the driver insisted they did not see me. They had time to look right at me as we waited. I guess I didn’t register, despite bright clothes and the flashing light on my Fly12. Cars rush right up to the edge of the road from cross streets and I am never sure if they see me. It is possible that when they were actually turning, I was obstructed by the A pillar of the vehicle. I think this is an under recognised issue. I myself have almost hit a pedestrian while turning. My passenger saw the pedestrian because they had different sight lines. Car pillars have gotten thick because of roof crush standards.
What do you think are the most important things that can be done to improve safety for cyclists on the road
Enforce laws about distracted driving and cell phone bans.
Did you report your incident? What was the reporting process?
We did not call police. We should have. My brother is a lawyer, and he did not suggest it. But I think he was as upset as I was, and was not thinking clearly!
What do you think about UpRide?
Possibly a better way to understand unsafe areas than trying to get statistics from police. Giving up all rights to the images is excessively burdensome. I am not sure that I will submit in the future.
What is your advice for other cyclists?
When something does happen, cyclists should not assume that they are OK even if there is no apparent injury. The rush of adrenalin can mask it. As soon as the adrenalin wore off, I could feel the pain in my shoulder, and ultimately I had to have surgery. Always involve police.
Want to share your story?
We’d love to hear from you. If you would like to share your stories and experience as a cyclist please reach out to the UpRide team.
