Riders, drivers have to learn to be on the road together

On Oct. 18, a friend, fellow athlete and board member of Columbia-based Mid-Maryland Triathlon Club was riding his bicycle along Route 108 when a vehicle turned in his path. The impact crushed the front of the SUV, smashed its windshield and destroyed the bicycle.

Life for him, his wife and his children changed instantly. He was not the only person affected; the person who hit him will bear emotional scars forever.

The same features that make Howard County a great place to live (peaceful countryside and beautiful, rolling hills), also make this a great place to bike. Route 108 and Homewood Road are two roads most often shared by bicycles and vehicles. As a cyclist, I know we're out there to improve skills, clear the mind and challenge ourselves. We all do these things, in one way or another.

I urge drivers to share the road with cyclists. We're just out there to find a peaceful and productive moment. Don't be in such a rush to get to your own peaceful and productive moments that someone else's life becomes jeopardized.

I urge all cyclists to wear bright colors, and carry your ID and medical insurance information.

Let's all get home safely.

Dawn Rudolph
Town Center

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