Cyclist found dead after getting hit by car

A cyclist was found dead early Monday morning after he was hit by a car in Colorado Springs.

He died on impact after trying to cross Powers Boulevard near Palmer Park just before 1 a.m.

His name has not yet been released. The driver involved in the crash does not face any charges.

“In this accident, alcohol and drugs aren’t considered a factor,” said Colorado state Trooper, Michelle Archer.

“If I was out there, I would have been lit up light a Christmas tree,” said Al Brody, a cycling advocate.

But police say the man who died Monday mornig wasn’t wearing a helmet or any reflective gear.

He also crossed the road in a no-crossing zone, and didn’t use the cross walk. It’s a death that’s very similar to another one that happened in July.

“The last fatality occurred after dark, on Palmer Boulevard. He got hit by a car that didn’t have a chance to stop,” said Kathleen Krager, with the city of Colorado Springs.

Krager said that cyclist also didn’t have a helmet or reflective gear.

“Those invisible cyclists are people working in the restaurants, in the hotels that are low-income, have a job and they can’t afford a car,” said Brody.

Officials with the city of Colorado Springs say they’re constantly trying to improve bike safety. They’ve recently added several new bike lanes, additional connecting trails and new signs.

“Colorado Springs became the first city in Colorado to put up the three-feet passing zone signs, to warn drivers they need three feet to pass a cyclist,” said Krager.

“My heart goes out to the family. It’s a tragedy to lose anyone, but especially a 28 year-old who has his whole life in front of him,” said Brody.