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Helmet would have saved OAP cyclist
A CYCLIST who died on a Cleveleys road after being hit by a car could have been saved if she had been wearing a helmet, an inquest heard.
Barbara Taylor, a healthy and independent 85-year-old from Norbreck, was cycling along Kelso Avenue when she was struck by a blue Citroen C3.
Doctors said the widow, who was rushed to Blackpool Victoria Hospital where she later died, could have survived the crash if she had been wearing a helmet.
David Kilgallon, the driver of the car who admitted causing death by careless driving, today said he never stops thinking about the tragedy.
The 24-year-old, of North Drive, Cleveleys, was sentenced to 100 hours of community work and banned from driving for a year by a judge at Blackpool Magistrates Court.
He added: “I’ve not stopped thinking about what happened. It’s been traumatic. I’d like to re-affirm the need for head gear. I’m a cyclist myself, and when I see people around without helmets I want to jump off and tell them.”
Mr Kilgallon was turning left out of Conway Avenue and onto Kelso Avenue when the crash happened around 3pm on February 26. PC Richard Roberts, accident investigation officer, confirmed there were no defects to the car and said Mr Kilgallon had slowed down as he approached the junction.
Christopher Beverley, Blackpool’s assistant deputy coroner, recorded a verdict of accidental death.
He said: “Very often, sitting in this position, we have to express concern about young people not wearing suitable head gear when using a bike.
“In this case I believe the call should go out for our senior citizens who may be active and fit. Everyone accepts that while these are life-saving accessories, they can be quite glamorous. I’m sure there is suitable head gear for those of a more senior age.”.
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Weather for Fleetwood
Wednesday 19 June 2013
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 9 C to 18 C
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Wind direction: West
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