Long Island Cyclists Take to The Road in Remembrance of Those Killed By Motorists

On Wednesday May 16^th at 6 PM the Suffolk Bike Riders Association (SBRA) will participate in the nationally organized Ride of Silence™ and lead Long Island cyclists in a silent protest in honor of cyclists who have been killed by motorists. The Ride of Silence™ aims to raise awareness among motorists of the presence of cyclists on the road and to honor those who have been injured or killed. Hundreds of other events similar to this are organized across the country for the same day.

Chris Phelan organized the first Ride of Silence™ in Dallas in 2003 after endurance cyclists Larry Schwartz was killed by a passing bus mirror on an empty road.

According to Bob DeVito, President of Suffolk Bike Riders Association (SBRA), “The Ride of Silence™ is a free ride that asks its cyclists to ride no faster than 12mph for an hour and to remain silent during the ride in remembrance of those who have lost their lives while cycling. Anyone who wishes to participate is invited to join us on Wednesday May 16^th.”

The ride requests black arm bands be worn in support of those who have been killed while biking.  Helmets are required and bright clothing and lights are highly recommended for the ride home. Participants are asked to arrive no later than 5:45PM at the Park & Ride at Exit 61 on the north side of the Long Island Expressway for a 6PM ride start.

The ride hopes to raise cycling awareness during May, which is National Bike Month and includes other biking events such as “Bike to School Day” and “Bike to Work Day.” This ride specifically seeks to educate motorists, police, traffic engineers, insurance companies, and elected officials about the need for motorists and cyclists to share the road. The ride is also a chance to mourn and remember those who have been killed.

At least 64 cyclists have been killed on Long Island roadways since 2005, which exceeds the rates of New York City, New Jersey and Connecticut.

Last year there were over 12,000 participants in the Ride of Silence across 300 locations in all 50 US states, and 24 countries on all 7 continents including. For more information on SBRA’s ride, visitwww.sbraweb.org.