There have been several pedestrian and cyclist deaths recently in the Tennessee Valley, and now that it’s getting darker earlier, that means more danger for everyone.
On Tuesday, bicyclist Jose Zayas was struck and killed by a vehicle in Madison County just after dark.
Local bicyclist, Joanna Nalley, says drivers should pay more attention and share the road.
“You might try and get out of the way and then they don’t give you space, so as a driver, allowing bikes the room, definitely makes them feel a lot better,” said Nalley.
State law requires cyclists riding at night to have a white light on the front and a red reflector on the back of their bikes. Cyclists should also wear high visibility gear during the day and reflective gear at night. You can find this kind of gear at both Bicycle Cove locations.
Drivers should always keep an eye out for pedestrians, but pedestrians should also wear bright clothing and make sure they’re walking where they’re supposed to.
Lt. Michael Johnson with the Huntsville Police Department said, “We have had a couple of pedestrians that have been hit and all of them have been at areas where there’s definitely not a crosswalk or an overpass.”
