It’s happened again.
For at least the third time this month, a bike rider traveling in a designated bike lane has killed in an apparent rear-end collision, this time in Claremont.
According to KTLA-5, the victim was riding east on Baseline Rd at or near Bonnie Brae Ave around 10 am today when he — or possibly she — was hit by a vehicle traveling in the same direction. While road position is not mentioned, the story notes the presence of a bike lane; a wide, curbside lane is clearly visible in Google’s street view.
Another report put the collision site near the Vons at Baseline and Mills Ave.
The victim was declared dead at the scene. The driver remained at the scene and is reportedly cooperating with police.
This is at least the 86th bicycling fatality in Southern California this year, compared to 74 last year, and the 37th in Los Angeles County — 13 more than each of the last two years.
My deepest sympathy and prayers for the victim and his or her loved ones.
Thanks to Michael Wagner, Erik Griswold and Danny Gamboa for the heads-up.
Update: According to Michael Wagner of CLR Effect, the victim appears to be a man in his 70s, who was hit near the intersection with Edinboro Ave, between Baseline and Mills.
Claremont Patch reports the collision occurred at 9:54 this morning.
Update 2: KTLA-5 reports the victim is 76-year old La Verne resident Ali Mirage. The driver, a 54-year old woman whose name was not released, has not been charged pending the outcome of the investigation.
Update 3: The Daily Bulletin reports Mirage was honored with a ghost bike on Tuesday. Family members remember him as a fearless free spirit who loved nature, life and exercising.
The VC left strikes again. I gather that this is what this person tried to do.
A box left or Copenhagen left may take a bit longer, but it avoids potential for conflicts like this one.
Thanks again John Forester!
Let’s be careful here. I was very critical of a writer who appeared to be blaming the victim by suggesting cyclists should ride in the traffic lane, rather than a bike lane, following a recent fatality. I know that’s not what you’re trying to do, but this doesn’t seem that different.
I usually turn left by signaling, checking for traffic and moving to the left turn lane or center line unless traffic conditions or roadway speeds keep it from being safe. In that case, a box turn makes a very safe alternative.
You are correct in that I should await the results of the investigation. But the dent on the motorist’s windshield, on the driver side, indicates that this man was hit from behind while moving into the left turn pocket and travelling the same direction as motor vehicle traffic, a maneuver that is not necessary.
Looking forward to the release of the driver’s name which will surely happen since she killed with her car, right?
Unless she’s charged, you’ll probably never learn her name.
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Our prayers go up for the family and friends of the victim.