The family of a fallen cyclist, Jose Zayas, is working to raise awareness about the need for safety on roads here in the valley.
Jose Zayas was struck and killed by a driver in October, and now his family is starting a foundation in his honor. It’s going to be called Ride On, Zayas.
Delineliz Zayas says she was inspired to start the foundation after her brother’s passing. “Zayas’s personality– he was very special not only for us– the family, but for many other people,” she said. “We want his humanitarian heart to continue on.”
Delineliz is keeping his memory alive as she works with other local cyclist clubs on launching a foundation to help to educate the community and create awareness about the safety on the roads.
One of the first places they want to start is in high schools– where students are preparing for their driving tests.
“The goal is to work with the city schools — to be able to go in and make presentations, and the other idea we have is to work with the Department of Transportation to incorporate in their tests some of the bicycle rules and signs,” she said.
She hopes drivers will understand that cyclists can use the full lane and also be aware of and adhere to the “three feet law” in Alabama, which requires vehicles to keep three feet of distance between their car and anyone on a bicycle. Delineliz says the foundation is ultimately about saving lives.
“This time it was my brother,” she said. “But next time, it could be your son, your sister, your brother, anybody. Life is so sensitive — so delicate. It goes in a second. Working to save other’s people’s lives– it’s rewarding in this kind of moment.”
Not only does she want to spread awareness about laws regarding cyclists on the roads, she also wants to promote distraction free driving.
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