Bike fatalities decline in Colorado Springs, pedestrian deaths rise

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- As many residents participate in the 71st annual nationwide Bike to Work Day event on Wednesday morning, they can take comfort in the recent downward trend of cycling fatalities locally.

The decrease is likely because there are more bike lanes and better trail connectivity to create safer conditions for bike riders, as well as a greater overall focus on safety.

According to the Colorado Springs Police Department, one cyclist died last year, and there have been no deaths so far this year -- although an elementary school student had a close call at the end of April.

Police said that a child steered a bicycle into the path of an oncoming vehicle outside of Turman School; fortunately, the child received only minor injuries because the driver was traveling at the lower school zone speed limit.

However, pedestrians continue to die at an alarming rate, despite an increased safety awareness.

Police said that seven pedestrians have died in crashes so far this year, compared to three at this time a year ago.

Of the seven victims, two died while riding scooters; one was jaywalking; one was in a wheelchair in a right-turn lane and was hit by a commercial bus; two were struck while crossing a street; and one died after his own vehicle rolled down a hill and ran over him.

Police said that speed or alcohol weren't factors in most of the crashes; that most happened on busy streets or at intersections; and that most occurred at dawn, dusk, or night, when it may have been hard for drivers to see them.

It's a reminder for everyone -- driving, cycling, or walking -- to be alert to what's happening around them.