A recent study of Iowa’s traffic fatalities has been updated through this past Friday, Nov. 13, and according to Rose White of AAA Iowa, it shows a decrease in the number of motorist deaths for the year. However, it also revealed a distressing rise in bicycle deaths. Mark Wyatt, Executive Director of the Iowa Bicycle Coalition, says their research revealed approximately 60 percent of bicyclists involved in a fatal crash have been run over from behind. He and his organization want to raise awareness and bring about changes to driving regulations because of these alarming statistics.
He said a recent case in Benton County, near Vinton has emphasized the need for increased regulatory action. A cyclist had front and rear cameras mounted that recorded a motorist passing in a no passing zone and coming too close for comfort. The courts, however, found the driver not guilty, saying the cyclists rights could not be placed above those of the motorist.
This and many other close calls are why improving traffic safety and awareness is the coalition’s top priority.
Wyatt was in the Carroll area to meet with state Representative Brian Best to discuss defining and updating codes that outline rules for changing lanes to pass when a bicycle is in the roadway or when they are in a bike lane. He said Best was very receptive to these changes and interested in advancing traffic safety.
