ACT Policing has issued a reminder to cyclists that wearing a helmet is compulsory and could potentially save your life after a serious collision between a car and a cyclist in Braddon on Monday morning (February 8).
The collision occurred around 9.20am on the corner of Condamine Street and Northbourne Avenue, Braddon.
A 43-year-old female driver from Watson was turning right into Northbourne Avenue from Condamine Street when she struck the cyclist.
The cyclist, a 38-year-old Turner woman, was not wearing a helmet at the time of the collision.
As a result of colliding with the car, the cyclist suffered severe head injuries and remains in ICU at The Canberra Hospital.
Sergeant Dick Dauth, from ACT Policing’s Collision Investigation and Reconstruction Team, said that while the circumstances which led to this collision are still being determined, the outcome was that the cyclist was exposed to a far greater chance of serious injury by failing to wear a helmet.
“It’s a simple, proven fact that helmets save lives,” Sgt Dauth said.
“Regardless of the age or experience of the bike rider, the human head needs protection. Any impact can have very serious consequences if an unprotected skull strikes a solid object or surface.
“Police would again remind all cyclists that wearing a helmet when riding a bicycle in the ACT is compulsory at all times and failing to do so may incur a $67 fine.”
Any witnesses to the incident who have not yet spoken to police are urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers website on www.act.crimestoppers.com.au.
Had the driver and the cyclist both observed the Give Way rules, then the collision would not have occurred.