With snakes and other animals still on the popular paths and trails of the DC Metropolitan area, cyclists at ABRAMS LANDAU were saddened to learn of the fatal crash of a Vienna Virginia bicyclist near Urbana, Maryland. According to a witness, the Vienna man was traveling up to 30 mph downhill, and swerved to avoid groundhog when he lost control and crashed. According to the Fairfax Times report, he was transported via helicopter to the Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore.

The animal’s presence in the roadway, the biker’s speed and the slope may have all contributed to this fatal crash. At the Landau Law Shop, we have seen instances where it takes longer for bikers and motorists to stop when they are going downhill. This tragic case reminds us of the importance of watching for dogs, cats, squirrels and other animals that may “dart out” into the road without warning. Bottom line: Keep your head up, use all your senses (so no MP3s or cell phones), and ride defensively.