Bicycle Accident - News Release

NEWS RELEASE
City of Takoma Park Police Department
• 7500 Maple Avenue • Takoma Park, Md 20912

For more information contact:
Public Information Officer (PIO)
Catherine Plevy, 301/891.7142 or 240/338.2901

January 17, 2013 (9:50 a.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

On January 16, 2013, at approximately 4:31 p.m., a bicyclist was riding his bike at Maple Avenue and Philadelphia Avenue and failed to yield the right-of-way to a motorist. The motorist was in the right turn lane on Maple Avenue and proceeded to make the right turn on to Philadelphia Avenue on the green turn signal when the bicyclist cut across Maple Avenue on to Philadelphia Avenue. The bicyclist collided with the vehicle and flipped over the hood. The bicyclist was transported to Holy Cross Hospital as a precaution but was not suffering from any major physical injuries.

Bicyclists are considered vehicle operators; they are required to obey the same rules of the road as other vehicle operators, including obeying traffic signs, signals, and lane markings. It is so important to follow safety rules while riding a bicycle, especially if you are riding within and around motor vehicles. Please use the following safety tips while riding your bike:

Always wear a helmet

Obey all traffic controls

Ride your bicycle near the right-hand edge of the road

Never carry another person on your bicycle

Always use hand signals when turning or stopping

Look out for cars at cross street, driveways, and parking places

Be careful when checking traffic and don't swerve when looking over your shoulder

Give pedestrians the right-of-way

Keep your bicycle in good condition

Always ride carefully