Cyclists face growing dangers riding in Austin
Cyclists in Austin are seeing an increase in collisions with cars due to lack of awareness of their riding. It was once hailed as the second-best city in the country in which to ride a bicycle. Austin has a huge cycling community. Al Bastidos of Be Kind to Cyclists was in a serious accident five years ago. Now, he spends his time trying to raise awareness and remind drivers to share Austin's roads. "It is happening all the time because we have more cars and no awareness," Bastidos said. Recently Joe Blakistone was hit by an 18-wheeler on the side of the road while he was training for an MS race. He stopped to change the rear tire of his bicycle and was on the roadside when he was hit by a semi truck that, based on the skid marks, was driving on the shoulder of the road. "There was a lot of bleeding, I lost a lot of blood, got a concussion...pretty much have a headache all the time, but I hear that's supposed to go away in a couple weeks," Blakistone said. Blakistone walked away with his life, which is more than some can say, but his experience has added value. "Motorists need to understand that I'm not just a cyclist, I'm a son, boyfriend, grandson. People out there love us too and people want us to come back from our rides. Everyone can share the road together and be respectful," Blakistone said.
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