- LACBC STATEMENT -
REACTION TO CYCLIST'S DEATH ON SIERRA HIGHWAY

We at the Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition (LACBC) were deeply saddened to learn about the tragic death of Tony Estrin who was killed by a passing motorist while riding his bicycle on Sierra Highway, Saturday April 8th. We offer our condolences to Tony's friends and family. We have lost a member of the cycling community.

While we do not want incidents such as this to scare people away from riding bicycles, the LACBC believes it is important to remind the motoring public that cyclists have a right to be on the roadway. Motorists must understand this right and should always give cyclists extra space while passing. Many cyclists can relate stories of being "buzzed" by motorists passing too closely or being harassed by motorists who are clearly ignorant of cyclists' rights as stated in the California Vehicle Code. This ignorant behavior among motorists is unacceptable.

Tony Estrin was an experienced cyclist who rode his bicycle safely. The motorist who struck and killed him, Scott Hart, has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. We encourage the authorities to prosecute Scott Hart to the fullest extent of the law. We believe Mr. Hart should be charged with vehicular manslaughter at the very least. Sadly, state law is currently very weak with respect to penalties for "motorist-caused injuries". State bill SB 1021 has been introduced to increase the current penalty which is ridiculously low and to assign points to a convicted driver's record.

Amendments have been recommended in an effort to make sure this legislation benefits cyclists. We encourage everyone, cyclists and non-cyclists, to support SB 1021. For more information visit www.calbike.org

Maria Gutzeit, chair of the LACBC Santa Clarita Chapter stated "Incidents like this demonstrate the critical importance of bicycle advocacy as promoted by the Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition. The Santa Clarita Chapter has been effectively lobbying for better bicycle facilities in both the City of Santa Clarita and the unincorporated County areas in the Santa Clarita Valley."

"In a region such as Santa Clarita, where traffic, air quality, and recreational opportunities are issues of concern to residents, LACBC's work is a key piece in the puzzle. All cyclists are invited to get involved with the Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition so together we can enhance the safety and viability of bicycle transportation and recreation throughout the region."

Lastly, we want to remind the public that bicycling is a fun, healthy activity that everyone can enjoy. If one reviews the statistics, bicycling is still safer than driving a car. Increasing numbers of people are bicycling for recreation or for transportation. We invite all non-cyclists to get on a bicycle and join the estimated 3 million bicyclists in Los Angeles County.