Updates On Recent Bicyclist-Driver Crashes

Thank you to the dozens of people who came out in the rain last night to show support for Mr. Gregory Loper's family. It was wet and cold, but comfort is not the purpose of such moments of solidarity and reflection.

Two ways you can help the family through this difficult time:

• Send an e-mail to cyclingelves@gmail.com, and a volunteer will be in touch with you.
• Contact your State Senators about HB 208, which would close a loophole which encourages drunk drivers to flee the scene of an accident. (Follow the link to learn more about this absurd legal incentive.)

ABC Philly reports the driver who struck Mr. Loper is being charged with "Homicide by Vehicle, Homicide by Vehicle while DUI, Accident Involving Death, Driving Under the Influence, Recklessly Endangering Another Person and related offenses."

In related news, yesterday a bike cop was hit by a car in Center City and hospitalized. Fortunately, the driver did not flee and newspaper reports suggest that the driver may not have been at fault. We extend our best wishes to the police officer for a clean bill of health. The officer is reported to be in stable condition without broken bones but is being checked for head injuries.

As we head into the busiest travel period of the year, please remember that the road is a dangerous place. If you are driving this weekend, be cognizant of the impact your vehicle can have on the lives of those around you. And whether you are in a vehicle, on a bike, or on foot, please be alert, sober, and respectful of your fellow travellers' equal right to arrive safely at their destinations.

11/23/11 12:02 PM EDIT: another bit of news on this sad topic. Last December, Mr. Randall Bratu was bicycling on Baltimore Ave in Upper Darby when he was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver. Last week, the driver pleaded guilty to four counts against him: homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence, accident involving death or personal injury, accident involving damage to an attended vehicle, and driving while under the influence.