On Sunday, February 1st, 2015 at about 11:32 a.m., police officers from the Azusa Police Department responded to a call of an injury traffic collision involving a bicyclist, on the bike trail located at 1989 N. San Gabriel Canyon Road in Azusa.  The officers arrived and located an injured 48 year-old male transient on the trail.

A preliminary investigation revealed the male was riding a bicycle, and was possibly racing another cyclist. The male's bicycle had a mechanical failure, which caused him to be ejected off of the bike.  The male was not wearing a helmet, and he suffered major head trauma, and a broken back, when he struck the pavement.

The male was treated at the scene by paramedics and transported to the USC Medical Center in Los Angeles.  It is unknown at this stage of the investigation if alcohol and/or drugs were a contributing factor. 

Safety Tip:

Although California Vehicle Code Section 21212(a) requires cyclists under the age of 18 to wear a helmet when operating a bicycle, it's a good idea to wear a helmet, regardless of age. Just as in this case, many severe injuries and deaths could have been prevented had riders been wearing a helmet. Helmets are very affordable and can be purchased at bicycle shops and sporting goods stores. 

Another good practice is to periodically do a safety check on your bicycle to make sure it is operating properly. Some things to check are:

• Your wheel skewers are tight
• Tires are in good condition and properly inflated
• Brakes are in good condition and functioning properly
• The gears, chain and derailleurs are properly lubricated and functioning properly
• The bike has been properly adjusted to your height
• Your reflectors are properly mounted, and consider the use of a front and rear light, even during daylight hours

For further information on bicycle safety, check out the Bicycle LA website by clicking here.