NO TOLERANCE FOR "HOODBOMBING" ON TIMBERLINE ROAD
Posted: August 4th, 2010 2:20 PM
Following last weekend's injury crash involving a bicyclist "Hoodbombing" down Timberline Road with other cyclists, the Oregon State Police (OSP) and Clackamas County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) are taking a zero-tolerance enforcement approach to prevent similar use of that highway and potential crashes.
Hoodland Fire Department personnel confirmed media reports that they responded to a bicyclist who was injured after losing control while riding with a group of other cyclists as fast as possible down Timberline Road Sunday afternoon. The unidentified cyclist was transported by air to a Portland hospital for treatment of his injuries.
According to Sergeant Duane Larson, OSP patrol supervisor at the Government Camp work site, this is the second confirmed serious injury crash in two years involving a group of cyclists "Hoodbombing" down the 5.5 mile steep, curving stretch of Timberline Road.
"Most bicyclists using our roads know the laws and the importance of riding safely while sharing the road, but the use of Timberline Road to 'Hoodbomb' can be unlawful and place not only themselves but others driving along the road in an extremely dangerous situation," said Larson.
Under Oregon law, a bicycle is considered a vehicle for which many traffic laws, from violations to felonies, may be applicable to a bicycle operator. Any provisions of the Oregon Vehicle Code relating to the operation of bicycles do not relieve a bicyclist or motorist from the duty to exercise due care.
Examples pointed out by Larson after viewing video posted on the Internet by involved cyclists include improper use of lanes, careless and reckless driving, speed racing, and organizing a speed racing event. Most people believe these offenses only apply to motor vehicle operators, but bicycle operators may also be cited or lodged in jail for arrestable offenses.
"We want Timberline Road to be safe for all users including pedestrians, bicycles and motor vehicles," said Larson. "The last thing we need is to have someone driving on Timberline Road encounter an out-of-control cyclist and the police knocking on a relative's door to tell them their son or daughter are dead because of this."
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