Following Too Closely and Not Paying Attention

A multiple-bike accident yesterday morning on California Highway 1 in Northern California provided a harsh reminder of the penalties for following too closely and not paying close enough attention to what's going on ahead of you.

A group of four riders was traveling two abreast in the left lane when the Toyota pickup in front of them slowed to make a left-hand turn onto a side road. The two lead riders reacted late and were barely able to stop in time, according to reports in local newspapers. The two riders following behind rear-ended their stopped buddies, bringing all four bikes (two carrying passengers) down.

End result? All six people (four riders, two passengers) were taken by helicopter to a local hospital, where two were listed in critical condition. Although both of those riders have been stabilized and will probably survive, they and/or their friends could have easily died in an accident like this.

Our first reaction when we hear about something like this is to extend our deepest sympathies to the injured riders and their families. Secondly, we ask ourselves if anything can be learned from such a tragic event. It is possible that had the two riders in the lead been paying closer attention to the actions of the driver in front of them, they would have been on the brakes earlier and less aggressively than they reportedly were. More fault goes to the two following riders, who obviously didn't leave enough distance in front of them to allow for a safe and controlled stop.

Every rider knows that riding a bike requires constant vigilance. Even so, it is easy to become complacent, particularly on a scenic coastal road like Highway 1 in California. We urge all of our readers to take this as a reminder to "keep your head up", and allow a generous following distance whether you are behind a fellow rider or an automobile driver.