March 25, 2012: In a tragic accident Friday afternoon, a motorcyclist was killed on Chuckanut Drive in Skagit County. The bike rider was coming around a curve in the road when he was confronted with a Buick stopped for a left turn. Unable to stop himself, he slammed into the Buick, careened off, and then smashed into a parked pickup truck. Police determined that reckless driving on the part of the motorcyclist was the cause of the accident.
I’ve written a number of times about careless car drivers not noticing motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians, and causing often-fatal car accidents. The victim is usually the biker or pedestrian, of course. But this unfortunate story helps to provide some balance. The car and truck drivers aren’t always the ones at fault. Most bikers understand and live by the fact that they have to be very careful and look out for themselves. But a few, unfortunately, take needless chances. Like the biker I saw near my home yesterday, probably going 80 or more on a country road. I hope and pray he wises up before it’s too late.
So, to car drivers I say, pay more attention to the little people who share the road with us—bikes, motorcycles, and pedestrians. But to bikers, I say, use some common sense. Always wear a helmet (The guy in Skagit County was wearing one.), and slow down so you can stop in an emergency situation. Don’t zig-zag in and out of other traffic with little room to spare. Obey the traffic laws. And by all means, don’t drive under the influence of stupid.
Enjoy the road and the fresh air. Just keep safe!
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