TEMPE, Ariz. — Several members of a local cycling club are recovering after being run over by a car last Sunday.
About six members of the Major Taylor Phoenix Riders group were riding in the bike lane near Apache Boulevard and College Avenue when a small SUV hit the group from behind.
Three cyclists were taken to the hospital with serious injuries but are now recovering at home.
“I’m just happy to report that everybody’s home, everybody’s healing,” Donna Davis, a founding member, said.
Donna Davis said the group was on a recreational route they take often.
“Every cyclist knows what possibilities are out on the road,” Donna Davis said. “It’s heartbreaking. I think the biggest relief was that they were riding safe.”
Tempe Police said the driver stayed on scene and no charges were filed.
The group is asking drivers to obey Arizona laws that protect cyclists, including staying at least three feet away from cyclists on the road.
“Unfortunately, it’s becoming more and more common and there’s not a lot that can be done unless attitudes change,” James Davis, a cyclist, said.
James Davis encourages fellow cyclists to watch out for cars coming from parking lots and side streets. He also said cyclists should always ride with visibility gear including lights and reflectors.
“Even a small car weighs 3,800 pounds and compared to a cyclist or a pedestrian, the car is going to win every time,” James Davis said.
Donna Davis said it will be a while before the injured cyclists get back on their bikes, and some are no longer comfortable riding near busy streets.
The group plans on adding more recreational rides routed away from traffic.
“We want everyone to feel confident and secure. So, if that means we’ve got to reroute it, we will,” Donna Davis said.
A GoFundMe page was started to help support the injured cyclists. Click here to donate.
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