2008 is deadliest year for bicyclists since 2000; caution is urged
Following the deadliest year for bicyclists in eight years, state traffic safety and transportation officials are urging motorists to drive alert as warm weather arrives and bicyclists return to the road, the Minnesota Department of Transportation reported.
Last year 13 bicyclists were killed, the most since 2000, when 14 were killed, and a significant increase from the four bicyclist deaths in 2007.
More bicycle commuters last year was a factor in the increase in deaths. A similar number of bicyclists is expected this year and safety officials urge caution for those who may be new to bicycle commuting.
Transportation Commissioner Tom Sorel said, "During May, National Bike Month, we want motorists to recognize bicyclists as people, not obstructions, and bicyclists to recognize and obey stop signs and traffic signals, not ignore them."
Each year, an average of eight bicyclists are killed and more than 950 are injured in crashes with motor vehicles.
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