MESA, AZ -- Organizers say approximately 400 bicyclists took to the roads in the east Valley Saturday to remember riders who have died or been injured in Arizona.
The 11-mile
Ride of Honor started from Gene Autry Park in Mesa at 10 a.m. along with activities such as a 'Share the Road' safety fair, youth helmet exchange, and a 'ghost bike' dedication.
Organizer Sterling Baer said official records show 311 bicyclists have been killed over the last 12 years while riding on Arizona roadways. He said seven people were killed in August and September alone.
He said 20,815 cyclists were injured in crashes during the same time.
Baer asked the crowd at Saturday's event how many riders had been 'brushed' off the road or had something thrown at them and he said 80 percent raised their hands.
He said that is significant because Arizona passed a law about six years ago mandating a three foot safety zone for bicyclists on the road.
"The primary purpose [of Saturday's event] was to heighten public awareness and educate on how to share the road safely together," Baer said.
He said he attributes the deaths and injuries to gross inattention by drivers who are on the phone and texting while driving. Many have been hit and run crashes, some drunk drivers.
Baer said the
Not One More foundation provides relief support to injured bicyclists and helps create public awareness of how to safely share the road with bicyclists.
The group will propose new legislation in Arizona to protect 'vulnerable' vehicles, according to Baer.
