On May 18th, people around the world participated in the Ride of Silence. This international event honors cyclists who have been killed in the previous year by distracted or careless drivers.
Dozens of cyclists in Goshen, Indiana rode in silence for the one-hour, 10-mile local journey. The Ride of Silence serves as a period of reflection for many of the Goshen riders, some of whom have lost loved ones in bicycle vs. automobile accidents.
Fortunately, there were no bicycle accidents reported in Elkhart County in 2015, though there were seven bicyclist fatalities from 2012 to 2014.
Bicycle Safety Month
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has declared May as National Bicycle Safety Month. The “Be a Roll Model” campaign aims to improve safety for motorists and bicyclists alike and decrease the number of traffic accidents, injuries, and deaths involving bicyclists.
Both automobile drivers and bicyclists share responsibility in making the roads safer for all.
- Bicycles are legally considered vehicles; bicyclists have the same responsibilities and rights when on the road.
- Bicyclists should communicate their intentions to turn with other riders and drivers by using hand signals while riding.
- Bicyclists should always ride with the flow of traffic, not against it.
- Automobile drivers should cut distractions so they may properly focus on the road and increase their awareness of bicyclists.
Participants in the Goshen Ride of Silence also remind bicyclists to improve their visibility by wearing reflective, bright clothing and to add operational flashing lights on their bikes while riding.
If your loved one was the victim of a fatal bicycle accident, your family may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, funeral expenses, and pain and suffering. The reputable South Bend wrongful death lawyers at Pfeifer, Morgan & Stesiak will fight for the justice your loved one deserves.
Call (574) 444-0741 for help today.
