Bicyclist Struck by SUV in Missouri

August 1 , 2018 | Car Accidents

During the summer months there are more bicyclists on the roadways. Because of the higher volume of bicyclists, drivers and bicyclists alike need to take precautions to keep themselves and each other safe on the roadways. When a collision between a bicycle and motor vehicle, the person on the bicycle is more than likely to get the worst of it.  Unfortunately, collisions between bicyclists and motor vehicles occur. Some of these accidents could have been prevented if drivers practiced safe driving, such as a recent accident in Missouri.

Recently, a bicyclist was stopped at a stop sign waiting to turn when a police SUV took the turn sharply and collided with him. The whole incident was caught on video by the bicyclist as he was wearing a GoPro camera on his helmet at the time of the incident. In the video, the officer admits to looking at his phone at the time of the accident. Fortunately, the bicyclist involved in the accident was not seriously hurt, but he did experience soreness and scrapes from the accident. The Missouri State Highway Patrol is investigating the incident and the officer involved has been suspended with pay until the investigation has been completed.

This accident shows the importance of practicing safe driving. When you are driving, your whole focus should be on driving and what is happening on the roadways. Engaging in distracted driving activities such as testing or using one’s phone while driving increase the likelihood of being involved in an accident.  Using your phone while driving causes you to take your eyes off the rad, your hands off of the steering wheel and diverts your attention from driving. When you make the decision to use your phone while driving, you are not only putting yourself at risk of being in an accident or injured, but you are also putting others at risk as well. By ensuring that you practice safe driving, you can help to prevent collisions and make the roadways safer for all.