Local bicycle accident shows safety equipment necessary, effective

Thursday, July 17, 2008
Adam Arnold, 14, Fort Scott demonstrates the proper use of bicycle safety equipment including the use of a helmet, elbow pads and knee pads while riding his bike Wednesday afternoon in downtown Fort Scott. Rayma Silvers/ Tribune Photo

When one Fort Scott woman donned protective gear, hopped on her bicycle and peddled her way out into the street, she had no idea the hazard that awaited her.

At 10:03 a.m. on Monday, July 14, an area resident, whos name has not been released, exited her driveway on her bicycle. Although the bicyclist took every precaution recommended, she could not stop the tragedy that was about to befall her. However, her willingness to follow the suggested safety rules may have saved her life, according to information provided by Fort Scott police.

As the rider made her way up Margrave Street, a vehicle coming from behind her, blinded by a slight curve in the road, hit the cyclist knocking her to the ground, According to the FSPD. The rider was flown to the hospital by helicopter, but partially due to the protective helmet she was wearing, was released the same day.

According to the Kansas Department of Transportation, www.ksdot.org, bicyclists in Kansas are required to follow the same road rules as motorists.

"Please ride safely, be courteous to other roadway users, and abide by all Kansas traffic laws," KDOT said. "Always ride a well-maintained bicycle and know your riding limitations. You should be able to ride comfortably with minimal strain at least half of the total distance planned to be covered each day of your tour."

KDOT strongly encourages all bicyclists to wear helmets approved by the American National Standards Institute; the American Society for Testing and Materials; or the Snell Memorial Foundation. When traveling by bicycle, riders should ride on paved shoulders, which are at least three feet wide whenever possible. It is important for cyclists to ride with the flow of traffic.

"Ride with the normal traffic flow and ride to the right side of the roadway," KDOT said. "If lane width allows, stay within two feet from the curb or roadway edge which will allow you maneuvering space to avoid debris or potholes. Lane markings are for your safety and benefit."

Bicycle riders should avoid making sudden movements by acting predictably and not surprising motorists. Also, if there are several riders in a group, it is important to travel single file on the right side of the roadway.

Using arm signals is a good technique to alert motorists of what a rider will be doing. In addition, it is important for anyone who is riding a bicycle at night to dress appropriately, according to KDOT.

"Wear brightly colored clothing and have reflectors on your bicycle," KDOT said. "When riding after dusk, the bicycle must be equipped with a white light visible at least 500 feet ahead and have a reflector visible at least 500 feet to the rear. A flag is useful in increasing your visibility on rural roads."

According to KDOT, riding defensively can help a cyclist avoid dangerous situations.

"Maintain a safety first attitude. In a crash, whether your fault or not your fault, you lose. Use all your abilities to protect yourself," KDOT said.