Thousands of events are scheduled across the nation to celebrate the joys and traditions that come with riding bicycles. While most events are geared to welcome spring and summertime activities, some, like the Bike Bonanza in downtown Salt Lake City, promote healthy living and efficiency. Another national event, the Ride of Silence, is dedicated to reminding people about bicycle safety and honoring those killed in bicycle accidents.
Each year since 2003, riders have gathered on the third Wednesday of May to bring awareness to the hazards bicyclists endure from motorists. Riders do not speak to each other during the ride to honor their fallen brethren. For 2011, the Ride of Silence organization reports having 322 events across the United States.
The Ride of Silence is much different than other organized bicycle rides. The event is actually a huge funeral procession, paying tribute to all those that have died or survived car-v-bicycle collisions.
Remembering Cycling Victims in Utah
Utah's Ride of Silence events took place in Orem and Salt Lake City. The Orem ride featured a 12 mile course where cyclists were in tandem. The Salt Lake City course was 11 miles. Participating riders wore a a red bandana on their arm if they lost someone in a bicycle accident with a motor vehicle, while others wore black bandanas to indicate that they have previously been hit by a car while riding.
Bicycle accidents continue to be a concern on America's roads. The National Highway Transportation Safety Association (NHTSA) reports that 51,000 riders were injured and 630 were killed in bicycle accidents across the United States. A large majority of those injured or killed were men averaging 32 years (for those injured) and 41 years (for those killed). The National Safety Council reports that the total cost of bicycle injuries and deaths amount to $4 billion annually.
Safety advocates believe that education is a key component in biking safety. Motorists and bicyclists share a responsibility for knowing and following traffic laws. This is especially important at street intersections, as this is where a majority of bicycle accidents occur.
If you have been in a bike accident and have questions about your rights and options, contact an experienced Utah personal injury attorney for more information.
