This morning I was saddened to read in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution on line about a bicyclist killed in a collision in Woodstock, Georgia. As a personal injury lawyer who represents clients throughout north Georgia and as an avid cyclist, I am well aware of the risks of cycling on the roads in metro Atlanta and the surrounding communities. The article had very little information about what happened, but did say that the driver of a Van pulled out from a bank parking lot and the cyclist was killed when he rode his bike into the side of the Van. What a tragedy.
It is impossible for me to say at this time who was at fault for causing the collision, but my guess is that the driver of the Van failed to yield to the bike pulling into the road thinking the road was clear when it wasn't. As a cyclist, I have had many close calls when cars, vans, trucks, etc., have done the same thing to me. As a personal injury lawyer, I have represented other cyclists who have been badly injured when this has happened to them. This time, someone was killed.
Road biking is a wonderful sport and is especially enjoyable this time of year when the leaves are turning and the weather is perfect. Unfortunately, it is a very dangerous activity with the amount of traffic on our Georgia roads. I am hopeful that motorist will be reminded by this tragic accident to be more diligent to look out for both bicyclist and motorcyclist as they travel out roads.
My thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased.
