Watch CBS News

Bicyclist Hit, Killed By Snow Plow

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- A snow plow hit and killed a 46-year-old bicyclist early New Year's Day, authorities said.

The collision, which was between a private snow plow and a New Brighton man, happened just before 7 a.m. Sunday on the 4700 block of East River Road in Fridley, Minn.

Authorities say it was very dark outside and the man didn't have any lights on his bike. The plow was driving in the left lane, going south on East River Road. The biker was going north in the same lane when he collided with the plow truck.

The plow driver hit the brakes but could not avoid hitting the bicyclist, police said.

The driver and plowing company are cooperating with the investigation. Investigators are not releasing the name of the driver or the bicyclist. No one is in custody.

Dorian Grilley, of Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota (BikeMN), said this incident highlights the need for bicyclists to take safety precautions and for motorists to watch out for whoever else is using the road.

"I think everyone could use a little refresher course on what the rules of the road are," he said.

State law requires bicyclists to have a headlight that can be seen from 500 feet or a full city block. They also must have a rear reflector, so approaching cars can see them. Biking with traffic is the law.

"Bicyclists must obey all the rules of the road," Grilley said. "It's as simple as that."

Grilley hopes drivers do their part too and keep a lookout for bicyclists.

The Anoka County Sheriff's Office, Fridley Police Department, Minnesota State Patrol and Midwest Medical Examiner's Office are investigating the crash.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.