Chris Brandt
This is sad news.
I immediately thought of similar experiences I've had while travelling
west bound on narrow roads with a North/NW wind blowing from my right.
The wind is trying to push me left, into the middle of the road. Many
times I have experienced a suction effect after a car passes quickly.
This has mostly been with larger vehicles, my most memorable exprience
was with a pair of log trucks going 55-60 mph (close to speed limit). As
the first truck passed, I think I subconsciously re-adjusted my center
of balance to be more upright (leaning "less" into the wind to the
right) because the truck passing to my left temporarily changed the wind
direction. Just as the Log truck passed, it violently sucked me into the
slipstream while at the same time re-exposed me to the strong wind
coming from my right. I basically held on for dear life only to be
passed yet again 2-3 seconds later with another log truck. I could not
hear it approaching due to the noise of the first truck. Neither of the
drivers made an attempt to swerve out of the lane even though there was
no on-coming traffic. I will always remember that and am thankful that I
didn't swerve any more than I did.
This unfortunate accident that ended with a loss of life serves as a
reminder to all cyclists that we must always pay close attention to
traffic and to not make any assumptions. Yes, riding on the same roads
does require a lot of trust and faith in the drivers out there, but
don't assume that they see you, or that they are aware of the
environmental conditions you are pedaling in. They're in a padded seat
enjoying the air conditioning and the music. Their window may be dirty
and the sun might be glaring. Not to mention cell phones and alcohol.
Ride safe,
Chris Brandt
Ted Forgeron wrote:
Washington County Sheriff media report.
http://www.co.washington.or.us/sheriff/media/ftl_bike.htm