Cyclists know what it feels like to be vulnerable on the road. One of the dangers cyclists understand is the danger from the driver who does not see them or who is too impaired to avoid a bicycle crash. Because cycling has become one of the most favorite outdoor activities across the country, there are more bikes on the road. Cycling enthusiasts are found in so many settings, on mountains, on roads and on city streets; bicycles are all around us. We have become more like other countries around the world in which bicycles are prevalent. Not only are some Americans becoming less dependent on car travel, those riding are people of all ages.
There is always the potential that a cyclist will meet up with an impaired or distracted driver. Tragically, this happened here in Georgia last week. Athens, Georgia was the scene of a tragic bicycle accident that took the life of a 25 year old University of Georgia grad student. Two friends riding with her were injured in this Georgia bicycle accident. Reports indicate that she and the others were struck by a driver who was under the influence of drugs. The driver crossed over into the oncoming lane or traffic in this crash. The cycling community rode in her memory and is mourning the loss of her life.