Summertime brings people outdoors, whether for a leisure walk or a speedy bike ride. It is also the prime time for children to hit the streets, as school is out for the year. Unfortunately, this increase in outdoor activity also brings with it an increase in dangerous accidents. The negligent behavior of a driver on the road can bring a summer walk or bike ride to an end within seconds. Police urge the importance for all road users, whether car drivers or bicycle riders, to follow the rules and posted signage in order to keep everyone safe.
A recent accident between a bicyclist and a sport utility vehicle in Georgia is under investigation after it led to the death of a 9-year-old boy. Police say the fatal accident happened when the boy reportedly veered in front of the SUV, which was being driven by a 77-year-old man. The man said he didn’t have enough time to react because he saw the boy too late.
Police assume the 9-year-old was on his way to the shop where his parents worked. After the collision, the boy’s mangled bicycle ended up being thrown right in the front of that shop. The shop owner told reporters he knows the loss will be very hard on the couple.
Police say these types of accidents are a reminder that all road users need to obey road laws and pay attention while driving. A split-second act of negligence can lead to the loss of a life or injuries that can devastate a person for the rest of their life.
Source: WJBF News Channel 6, “UPDATED: 9-Year-Old Hit, Killed By Vehicle In Jefferson County Identified,” Brett Buffington, June 21, 2012