// Just When You Think You’re Safe…
Posted on Wednesday, September 2nd, 2009
Check out this video, sent to me by a friend. It’s a cyclist in Wisconsin being hit by a state law-maker’s SUV. Representative Fred Clark (D), apparently wasn’t paying attention, and ran a red light. The video is captured from inside a Madison Metro bus. You can tell that the bus is at a red light, the light turns green because the bus starts to go, a cyclist goes through the green light, and then BAM! an SUV plows through the red light the opposite way and strikes the cyclist.
Fortunately, the cyclist’s injuries were not life-threatening. But isn’t this video terrifying anyway? You think you’re safe, because the light your way is green. Surely cars are paying attention to the lights, right? And surely the cars will also see that there’s a bus about to enter the intersection, yes? No. You’re never sure. So while you’re generally safe if you follow the rules of the road, and only ride when your light is green, it’s always a good idea to wear a helmet, and be extra cautious. Each and every car is a potential danger. It takes some of the enjoyment out of riding the bike if you’re constantly afraid, so don’t be afraid–just be on guard. And prepared.