Sad news in Kanata
A picture of the five Ottawa cyclists injured in an accident early Sunday morning, July 19, 2009 - The Globe and Mail - Hit and run leaves shards of glass, mangled bikes - and a friend in disbelief
Related stories:
Driver arrested after van hits 5 cyclists in Ottawa - CTV
Man arrested after van slams into five cyclists in Kanata - Ottawa Citizen
Dear Friends:
In the course of media interviews today I have been asked a series of questions about sharing the road and some tips for motorists and cyclists. As is often the case, incidents like this trigger a debate in the media – and that debate is ongoing on blogs and in the press. Our hope is that the conversations will be constructive and dignified – notwithstanding the passion these issues evoke . I never thought I would be doing interviews like these – our hearts remain heavy as we think of our fellow cyclists so gravely injured and the suffering of their families and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.
In the course of one interview, I made the point to a reporter that Canada is respected worldwide for its peaceful diplomatic skills, and as a nation of great tolerance. How is it that when it comes to sharing the road we fail to measure up? How do we explain the declining civility on our roads and the lack of tolerance for others’ chosen transportation or recreational modes – particularly when bicycling is a net benefit to our environment and our economy? Is the failure to respect cyclists becoming a human rights issue where we are discriminated against because of our chosen mode of transportation? Why are we taking our lives in our hands when we set out for a lovely morning ride with friends, in eager anticipation of some exercise and friendship?
Food for thought.
Meanwhile, I have included that list for both motorists and bicyclists.
Ways bicyclists can improve safety:
1. Follow the law — it’s the safest way to ride. Bicyclists have the same rights and duties as other drivers and need to follow the same traffic laws.
2. Be predictable — ride in a straight line, signal turns and check behind you before turning or changing lanes.
3. Come to a complete stop at every stop sign and red light.
4. Ride with caution around parked cars and position yourself in the field of vision of a motorist pulling out of a parking space.
5. Be conspicuous — ride where drivers can see you, use lights at night and wear bright clothing.
6. Be aware — anticipate the next move of drivers, pedestrians and other cyclists. Watch for debris, potholes and grates.
7. If you are a beginner or are returning to bicycling, seek out clubs or bicycling advocacy organizations in your community for tips on safe riding, instruction, and group rides to improve knowledge and confidence.
8. Ride Ready — tires need air, brakes must work, chains should run smoothly, and quick release wheel levers must be closed.
9. Carry identification and cell phone, emergency cash, as well as repair and emergency supplies.
10. Wear a helmet.
Ways motorists can improve bicycle safety:
1. Respect bicyclists as legal road users with the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. Drive courteously and with tolerance. That cyclist is your neighbor and you are sharing the same road.
2. Obey the posted speed limit, and don't drive too fast for conditions.
3. Come to a complete stop at each stop sign and red light.
4. Check over your shoulder, and always check your blind spot. A bicyclist could be there.
5. Maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the bicycle in front of you.
6. Use low-beam headlights when driving in low-visibility conditions.
7. Yield to pedestrians and bicyclists in and entering crosswalks.
8. If you plan to turn right or pull into a parking space shortly ahead of a bicycle in front of you, do not pass.
9. Signal all turns and lane changes 100 feet in advance.
10. Pass bicyclists only it is safe to do so. Exercise patience.
In sharing this list with you, I thank the League of American Bicyclists for their assistance and inspiration.
Yours in safe cycling,
Eleanor
