By Luke Voogt
The death of a cyclist in Geelong on Wednesday was a fatal reminder to follow the road laws, Highway Patrol Sergeant Darren Murphy has warned.
Sgt Murphy said the 42-year-old cyclist was riding west in the eastbound lanes of Ryrie Street about 8am before crossing the road.
He became caught on the trailer of truck, which dragged him 50 metres down the road before coming to a halt.
The Newtown man suffered horrific injuries. He died on arrival at University Hospital Geelong.
The driver of the truck, a 58-year-old Portarlington man, stopped immediately to render assistance.
Police blocked off Ryrie Street from Moorabool to Yarra Streets as they investigated the crash site.
Witnesses reported the man riding in the wrong direction and talking to motorists before the crash.
Sgt Murphy said police had caught “a few” cyclists cutting off traffic, riding outside bike lanes or in the wrong direction.
“Occasionally we see bike riders riding through red lights and things like that. But that goes for all road users, unfortunately.
“The majority of cyclists are doing the right thing but we just want to make sure everybody is aware of what they should and shouldn’t be doing.”
Sgt Murphy has co-ordinated police operations in the CBD targeting pedestrians, riders and drivers.
“There is a whole mix of people breaking the road rules which is putting others in the area in danger,” he said.
“If there’s a heavy amount of metal driving toward you and you’re not doing the right thing you could place yourself in serious danger.”
Sgt Murphy said police were investigating the collision.
He urged any witnesses to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
