Bicyclist Injured in Collision with Motorist

Press Release from the City of Belmont

A bicyclist was injured Saturday afternoon when he collided with a motorist, who had turned in front of him on Ralston Avenue.

On Saturday, April 18, 2014 @ approximately 1:40PM, Belmont Police and Fire units responded to a report of a collision between a motorist and a bicyclist on Ralston Avenue at Chula Vista Drive. Upon arrival, first responders found a 29 year old Belmont man lying on the ground. He was treated at the scene by Belmont Fire Department Paramedics and transported to an area hospital for non life-threatening injuries. The bicyclist was not wearing a helmet at the time of the collision and was on his cell phone. The driver, a 90 year old Belmont woman, was not injured.

The cause of the collision is still under investigation, but it appears the woman was westbound on Ralston Avenue and made a left turn onto Chula Vista Dr. and into the path of the bicyclist, who was riding eastbound on Ralston Ave.

While the California cell phone law specifically applies to motor vehicles, the Belmont Police Department would like to remind cyclists to drive defensively. Talking on a cell phone and other activities, such as carrying packages and bags can reduce your reaction time to unexpected hazards. Also, while not required for adults, wearing a helmet is always recommended.

Photo credit: City of Belmont