Monday, August 24, 2009

Meridian

I almost got hit on Meridian again today. And the car behind me with a driver that waited way too long to brake did. It's too bad it won't be ruled their fault. I would have liked to stayed until the police got there so I could tell them that and hopefully influence the insurance, but if I was going to get shot, it was going to be in the back before they checked on the other people. No really, getting killed is an actual fear on Meridian. It's past time that the police do something about this. It was just before the traffic island at the 72 intersection. $1 says someone claims a cyclist caused the accident.

7 comments:

Unknown said...

yes meridian is scary even when I rode it on Saturday Night. About the two who got into a fender bender, I know it is the law that the person who hit the other person from behind is automatically at fault. In this case however, I would be bold enough to say that both drivers where at fault. The first was likely way to close to you and the second driver was way to close to the first. From the way I have seen people drive on Meridian it does not matter there is a second lane and third would not help. People on that road or just plain fucking crazy. Everyone is in a hurry and thinks they have the right to drive extremely fast because their punctuality is more important than anyone else's on the road. I doubt the drivers even respect each other and it is likely they will never respect bicycles.

Bello Velo said...

You have to call these in Clint. The idea is not to have them arrested, but to get the cops to get off their ass's and increase patrolling. Think about 5 points more complaints more cops.

I think we could also actually do something on our own , let me know if you are interested.

Skepticalone said...

I am so glad you are ok! Please also post these on Bikewise, even if the city doesn't use this resource it may help another cyclist, especially someone new to the area.

When will the City really get on-board this issue? Will it take 5 more dead cyclists? 10? 20?

Anonymous said...

The traffic island right there is terrible. I have been cut off in my car by other motorists because they swerve over at the last minute into the right lane so they don't have to wait for the light. I have noticed County Sheriff squad cars do the same.

I see the bike cops sitting in the middle of Pratt on a Friday night. Why not have them ride on Meridan for a change.

Leela the Kid said...

I'm really glad you're okay and really frustrated by meridian and the attitudes of drivers on that road. That traffic island is the worst part - drivers are just so focused on getting in the lane with the magic continuously green light that they don't even pay attention to what's going on. i get buzzed numerous times riding to work and i'm pretty much incapable of getting and remembering a plate number. of course a driver's going to say that it was someone's fault on a bike - they still have no idea we're allowed there and have a right to the lane. the misinformation is pervasive, the signage inadequate, and actual police enforcement nonexistent. this city seems to leave it all for us to try to change.

clintpatty said...

I'm calling the officer that worked the accident tomorrow. Hopefully something comes of that even if the report isn't changed any and the insurance isn't affected. We'll see. Maybe the officer already told the people that I'm supposed to be on the road (err...)

Bello Velo said...

Good Job Clint!!!