O’Donnell tragedy sparks “And we Bike” safety campaign

(Photo: Jonathan Maus)

The death of 66 year-old Timothy O’Donnell last June in Washington County continues to spark activism over safety concerns on rural roads.

The tragedy helped shine a light on bike safety during the last legislative session in Salem and was a key ingredient in the passage of the Vulnerable Roadway Users Bill. His death also spurred his family to create a memorial fund that is being administered by the Bicycle Transportation Alliance (BTA).

Now, a coalition of advocates and community groups — including the BTA, the Washington County Bicycle Transportation Coalition, the Bike Gallery, and Portland Velo — have launched, “And we Bike”, which they describe on their newly launched website as, “an effort to increase awareness of these serious safety issues.”

Tim O’Donnell

Here’s more about the effort from a press release sent out by the Washington County Bicycle Transportation Coalition’s Executive Director Hall Ballard:

“…volunteers at venues around the county to will present promote the message to motorists that when motorists see a bicyclist, they see the cyclist they are passing is a relative, friend, coworker or neighbor; The goal is to appeal to motorists’ compassion, in humanizing the concept of the “Share the Road” signage which is evident in the posted at many signs locations around Washington County.

…The campaign will include life-sized cutouts of people with their bikes…The cutouts will be placed in front of businesses and community gathering spots around the county…There will also be Printed material…presentations will be made to community groups throughout the month.”

Find out how to volunteer and learn more about the “And we Bike” campaign at AndWeBike.com.