Pincher Creek RCMP
A vehicle traveling north bound on Highway 6 at the intersection with Main Street had a green light and was proceeding through the intersection. A 13 year old riding a bike east bound on Main Street proceeded through the intersection without the right of way. Witness reports taken after the fact indicated that a group of approximately five youth had been riding their bikes near the intersection, not paying any attention to the traffic.
Despite the vehicles attempts to avoid a collision, the 13 year old cyclist hit the front end of the truck.
The 13 year old was transported to hospital by ambulance with minor injuries. The driver of the vehicle had no injuries.
Cyclists need to be aware that they are not considered pedestrians according to the Traffic Safety Act and need to obey the rules of the road, as if they were a motor vehicle. Children should be reminded to wear their helmets at all times and to dismount their bicycles when crossing roads making sure they are using the crosswalks and waiting until its safe to do so.
In this town, pedestrians and cyclists alike, seem to believe that theyre protected by a shield and will not get hurt if they run out into traffic. I have had to abruptly stop many times on Main St. due to people jumping out into traffic without even looking to see if a vehicle is coming. Moral of the story is, even though its illegal to hit someone with your car, you WILL get hurt if you do get hit by one! The car dosent magically bounce off you and leave you unscathed. Many young people in this town need to learn this!
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