Sometimes these things just don’t make any sense.
Earlier this week, we mentioned that a bike rider was in critical condition after apparently rear-ending a stopped minivan in Indian Wells.
Unfortunately, I’ve just received word that he didn’t make it.
According to News Channel 3, the victim was riding west on Highway 111 near Province Way in Indian Wells when he somehow rear-ended a stopped minivan around 10:52 Monday morning.
An email from the Desert Bicycle Club identifies the victim as 68-year old Paul Jackson, a part-time resident from Calgary, Canada.
He’s described as a very experienced cyclist, which makes this tragedy that much harder to understand.
It’s possible that the minivan was parked and Jackson didn’t see it for some reason. Or it’s equally possible that the driver may have come to a sudden stop after cutting him off, or he could have somehow been forced into the rear of the van.
Or any number of possible explanations.
Unfortunately, we may never know unless a witness other than the driver comes forward.
A street view shows a separated lane on HIghway 111, but it appears to be a curbside parking lane, rather than a bike lane.
Anyone with information is urged to call Officer Conoway of the Indian Wells Police Department Traffic Team at 760/836-1600.
This is at least the 15th bicycling fatality in Southern California this year, and the second I’m aware of in Riverside County; in fact, it’s the second in the county in just the past week.
My deepest sympathy and prayers for Paul Jackson and all his family and loved ones.
Thanks to Victor Bale for the heads-up.
We offer our prayers for the family and friends of Mr. Jackson.
My only serious injury in 30 years of bike commuting occurred after I rear-ended a pickup truck that stopped suddenly in the right-turn lane. I was aware of the truck and following behind it to also turn and was caught by surprised by it suddenly stopping for no apparent reason. I hit the truck and fell awkwardly, causing a minor fracture in my arm. The driver was apologetic, saying he stopped suddenly because he realized he needed to go in a different direction. I told him he wasn’t at fault, I was following too closely. He was very helpful and felt VERY bad about it.