Bikers ride to raise awareness for those killed in accidents

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Bike riders hit the streets in Goshen as part of the Ride of Silence to honor those who've been killed in accidents. (WSBT photo)

Story Created: May 20, 2009 at 8:39 PM EST

Story Updated: May 20, 2009 at 8:53 PM EST

GOSHEN — Last summer was a deadly one in St. Joseph County for bicyclists, but dozens of cycling enthusiasts gathered in Goshen Wednesday night to raise awareness, hoping this summer will be safer.

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They joined the nation in remembering those who have been killed while riding their bikes. It's called the Ride of Silence. About 30 cyclists joined in a quick prayer before strapping up and preparing for a 12-mile ride.

"We've got quite a few people showing up. It's the first time in this location. The city has been real gracious in granting us the permission to do the ride. It's just one more step toward a friendly Goshen bike community," said Don Poole, one of the cyclists.

Lisa Miller's cousin was killed by a driver while riding his bike in Colorado. She and her family all came to raise awareness of bicycle safety.

"I just encourage everybody, when you see a pedestrian, a biker or a runner, to just pay special attention to them. They are very vulnerable. We as bicyclists also have a very big responsibility to obey the traffic law and to pay attention," she said.

Just last summer, two men were hit and killed in St. Joseph County. Patrick Sawyer and Peter Kaczor were both wearing reflective vests and helmets when they lost their lives.

Since then, there has been a push to update Indiana's bicycle law, but nothing has happened yet.

Last year, there were more than 300 rides like this around the world. This year they expect more than 700.

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