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A local Bucks County bicycle accident fatality forces us to think about bicycle safety.

A November 5^th PA bicycle accident took the life of avid cyclist Joseph McBride, 58 years old, of Ewing, NJ.

The PA bicycle accident happened on River Road in Lower Makefield, Bucks County. Mr. McBride was reportedly riding north, along with another cyclist, when he drifted into the southbound lane and was struck by a minivan traveling southbound. The PA bicycle accident is still under investigation. It has not yet been determined what circumstances caused the cyclist's shift over the yellow line dividing the two-lane road - Route 32.

Pennsylvania Bicycle Accident Statistics (PennDOT)

In 2009 - 16 bicycle accident fatalities
In 2008 - 8 bicycle accident fatalities

In 2009 - 1,380 bicycle accident injuries
In 2008 - 1,419 bicycle accident injuries

Many Bucks County, PA roads are picturesque and inviting for motorists and cyclists alike. However, these same roads are often narrow and lack shoulders, which makes it difficult, and sometimes dangerous, for motorists and cyclists to share the road.

Safety Tips for Motorists:

Wait until it is safe to pass a bicycle; do not tailgate cyclist in the meantime and do not speed when passing the cyclist.
When making right turns, be aware that a cyclist may continue straight through the intersection.
Yield to an oncoming bicycle when making a left turn.
Before opening a car door(s) on the street, check for cyclists.
Be aware of cyclists on the road and react to their hand signals that indicate their intent to turn left or right.
Refrain from honking at cyclists; it may startle them and cause them to swerve into traffic.

Safety Tips for Bicyclists:

Be aware of and obey all local traffic laws and cycling rules.
Wear a helmet.
Ride with traffic, not against traffic.
Make your presence known, especially to right turning motorists who may not see you; make eye contact with drivers when possible.
Wear bright colored clothing at all times; at night use reflective lights on all sides of the bicycle so you can be seen.
Keep your bicycle in good mechanical condition and keep tires adequately inflated.

Though the facts surrounding the cause of Mr. McBride's fatal Bucks County bicycle accident have not yet all been gathered and/or released, it can be concluded that this accident was a tragedy for all involved. One family has suffered a great loss and a motorist has to live with knowing he/she was involved in a fatal car accident. We might hope that this horrible incident helps us work toward achieving safer conditions for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians within Bucks County.

The Bucks County & Mercer County personal injury attorneys and staff at the law firm of Saile & Saile LLP extend their sympathies to the McBride family.