Few things are more devastating than the death of a loved one, particularly if that person is young. This tragedy, however, can be amplified even further when a death comes suddenly and unexpectedly, such as in a car accident. Unfortunately, that is exactly what happened in a recent crash that took place in Kenosha, Wisconsin.
Last weekend, a 21-year-old bicyclist was killed when he was struck from behind by an oncoming car. The accident occurred around 1 a.m. According to reports, the 21-year-old man’s bicycle was outfitted with reflectors so as to be seen in the dark. Despite that precaution, an 18-year-old driver crashed into the man as he pedaled north on Highway H.
According to police reports, the teen driver had her eyes closed when she hit the bicyclist. She said she opened her eyes after hearing the sound that accompanied the collision. Her windshield was shattered, but she reportedly did not know what she hit. She called police to report the incident, but did not know where she was. Eventually, after traveling a mile further than where the crash occurred, she was able to tell dispatchers where she was.
Paramedics reported to the scene, but the bicyclist was discovered dead on the road. He had been pushed hundreds of feet farther than the crash site.
The teen driver was arrested following the collision. Police say charges of homicide by negligent use of a motor vehicle are pending the outcome of the accident investigation. Police say reports showed that the teen may have been on a cell phone when the crash occurred.
This accident is a clear example of the tragedy that can occur from negligent driving. Hopefully this crash and others like it will help encourage Wisconsin drivers to avoid distractions while operating a vehicle.
Source: TheJournalTimes.com, “Kenosha bicyclist killed in crash,” Marci Laehr Tenuta, Aug. 8, 2011
