Chico Authorities bring Attention to Bicycle Safety after Recent Deaths and Injuries

Chico police are asking drivers and cyclists alike to put more attention on safety and taking action to avoid bicycle accidents. The emphasis on bike safety comes after two cyclists were killed and three others seriously injured in the past several weeks. A 21-year-old driver was recently arrested after a cyclist was hit and later declared brain dead. J.N., 20 years old was eastbound on East First Avenue but waiting to make a left turn onto Oleander Avenue when she was struck from behind by a vehicle that failed to see her or her bike. She suffered severe head injuries as well as other injuries and was rushed to a local hospital. Later that night she was declared brain dead as there was no brain activity observable. The driver of the car involved, A.M., was taken into custody on suspicion of driving on a suspended license. While drugs and alcohol were not suspected to be a factor in the crash, investigators have said that further charges may be filed against A.M. as the investigation continues. Talk to a personal injury lawyer if you have been hurt in a bicycle accident that wasn't your fault.

Preventing Bicycle Accidents

As part of the campaign to bring awareness to bicycle safety the Chico Police Department's Sgt. Billy Aldridge has emphasized the following for drivers and the cyclists they share the road with:

• Drivers should give cyclists as much room as possible when sharing a lane.
• Expect to see bicycles where you may not expect them and always makes sure the way is clear in both directions when pulling into an intersection or out of a driveway
• Flash headlights at night when behind a cyclist so the rider knows you are there.
• Cyclists are required to follow the same rules of the road as a motor vehicle including obeying traffic signals and signs.
• Use a light on the front and rear of your bicycle to ensure visibility to drivers at night. Also, bikes are required to have reflectors on both wheels and on both sides of the wheels as well as on the seat post and handle bars.
• Cyclists must ride with the flow of traffic, not against it.
• Cyclists should not wear headphones or attempt to talk on a cellphone while riding. Pay attention to your environment and ensure you can hear what is happening around you.

Chico Personal Injury Attorney

Contact the Law Office of Adam Sorrells as soon as possible if you or a family member has been injured in a bicycle accident. We offer a free case evaluation and may be able to get you the legal results you need!