Although autumn has arrived, there are still those in Massachusetts who will take advantage of the last few snow-free months to ride their bicycles. Bicycling can be an effective mode of transportation that is healthy, environmentally friendly and, for some, just plain fun. However, motorists need to be aware that bicyclists have the same rights to share the road as they do, and they need to make sure they are aware of bicyclists in their vicinity while driving. The failure to do so could lead to a tragic car accident.
Recently, a popular middle school teacher lost his life after being struck by a car while on his bicycle. The accident took place on Route 20 in Charlton, Massachusetts. The victim, age 40, was hit by a 54-year-old motorist operating an Audi A4 sedan. According to investigators, the victim came out of a side street right before the accident occurred. The motorist remained at the scene of the crash and is cooperating with the authorities.
This teacher was well-loved and, according to the school district superintendent, was a “truly great” person who cared deeply about the students and their families. His loss will be greatly felt not just by his loved ones, but by his community as a whole.
Tragic accidents such as this one serve as a grim reminder that auto-bicycle accidents are often fatal. Bicyclists, even if they are wearing helmets, do not have much protection when struck by an automobile weighing thousands of pounds. Therefore, it is important for motorists to uphold their duty of care and drive safely around bicyclists. Should they fail to do so, and a bicyclist is injured or killed, the victim or his or her family members may want to learn more about whether they can hold the negligent motorist responsible through a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.
Source: necn.com, “Middle School Teacher Killed in Charlton Bike Accident,” Kaitlin McKinley Becker, Sept. 16, 2017
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