CLINTONVILLE, WI- The Clintonville Police Department has released updated information regarding a bicycle-versus-vehicle crash that occurred Wednesday at the intersection of South Main Street and West Madison Street.
Police Chief Craig Freitag said investigators have learned additional details since the department’s initial press release was issued.
According to Freitag, the vehicle involved in the crash was traveling through the intersection with a green traffic signal and had the right of way.
“The facts still remain that the vehicle that struck the bicyclist had the green light and had the right of way,” Freitag said.
Investigators initially believed the bicyclist had been riding on the sidewalk before entering the intersection. However, further investigation determined the bicyclist was actually traveling in the center turn lane against the flow of traffic before reaching the intersection.
Freitag said the bicyclist did not stop for the red traffic signal and proceeded into the intersection, where she was struck by the westbound vehicle.
The female bicyclist was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Her condition has not been released.
While the crash remains under investigation, Freitag said the incident serves as an important reminder that bicyclists are required to obey the same traffic laws as motorists.
“I think in every community there’s concern regarding pedestrian and bicycle safety and ensuring they’re able to cross the street safely,” Freitag said. “But we also need to understand that bicyclists have an obligation to follow the traffic laws.”
Freitag said traffic control devices, including red lights, stop signs and yield signs, apply to bicyclists just as they do to drivers.
The Clintonville Police Department continues to investigate the crash.
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