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(Update)
The 32-year old Milton man hit by an ATV last night has died. It happened on Lower Baseline East of Fourth Line. And the crash follows an earlier incident in Milton that left a 57-year old man with critical injuries after he crashed the bike at Kelso Conservation Area.
The two incidents were hours apart. But they have police and cycling experts cautioning riders to be extra vigilant as they ride their bikes.
The 57-year old man who was critically injured was riding his bike at Kelso park through a series of man-made features when he lost control around 11:30am Sunday. He was airlifted to hospital.
The 32-year old cyclist was pronounced dead just after 2 this morning at Hamilton General Hospital. Police say he was riding on Lower Baseline with his wife around 8pm when the accident happened.
Sgt. Paul Davies of Halton Police: “The ATV approached from the rear. At this time, the investigation is to find out if they moved out of the way and how that ATV had passed the cyclist. I must note cyclist didn’t wear helmet at time which may have contributed to the severity of the head injury.”
By law any one over 18 doesn’t have to wear a helmet but experts say no matter when you ride a helmet is a must.
Paul Davies: “We would like to remind the cycling public of the importance of wearing a helmet.”
Jeff Bayani owns Neworld Cycle and used to race as an amateur: “In my own career as a cyclist, I’ve broken three helmets — and we say everytime you break a helmet, it saves your life. The #1 reason people in a bad situation is if you’re not wearing a helmet, all other injuries are a high likelihood of recovering from.”
He says lights are great for making yourself visible.
Jeff: “Red for the rear one is more than enough, and there is a white one for front for oncoming traffic.”
Whether you are a professional or leisure rider, one accident is all it takes to risk injury.
Jeff Bayani: Prudency is the best rule to protect you, regrdless of who is right or wrong you’re the most vulnerable as a cyclist.
Checking out a few helmets, they were super light-weight — even lighter than a single running shoe. And very breathable. A low end helmet can cost $60 and a high end one can cost $350, but Bayani says regardless of price, they all pass same safey regulations. And it’s best to replace your helmet every 5-7 years.
