Critical mass little accident

Posted on 27. Mar, 2010 by Tony Arranaga in News

I bit the dust last night during Critical Mass, and I’m partially to blame. Critical Mass is a monthly group ride through Central Phoenix to help educate motorists about sharing the roadway with bikes.  The group is becoming rather large as each month passes – not only is the event a great way to make new friends but it’s also a chance to get out and about on a Friday night.  Usually people break off from the group at the end of the ride and enjoy one of the many restaurants in the central corridor.

Last night I was riding next to my friend Jane – she was on the street and I was on the sidewalk (mistake number one). A guy on a BMX style bike was riding in the parking lot next to the sidewalk and jumping off a half-wall…and collided with me upon landing. I have to take partial blame here because it was starting to get dark – my front and back lights weren’t on (mistake number two). We were both pinned under our bikes. Fortunately, we were both able to shake it off and ride away.

Had I been riding on the street with the group…and was more visible to the other rider…this accident may have been avoided. These group rides are so much fun, but if you don’t obey the rules of the road and ride with the rest of the group, then these large events will send out the wrong message to the community as a whole.

I promise to have working lights and ride with group at the next event.

This post is part of a 30 day blogging challenge (#30daybc) with friends Irene, Seth and Ryan.  Please take a moment to check out their blogs as well.  Thank you!

Tags: #30daybc, Critical Mass, Downtown Phoenix, Irene Agustin, Ryan Glass, Seth Anderson