Bicyclist Struck, Killed By Truck On North Side
CHICAGO (CBS) -- A bicyclist who swerving to avoid an opening car door was struck and killed by a truck on the near North Side Friday.
The accident occurred at Wells and Oak streets just before 9 a.m.
The accident happened when the rider, an attorney who was riding south on Wells, moved to avoid a parked driver who had opened a car door.
The 32-year-old rider was then struck by the passing truck, police said.
The Cook County Medical Examiner's Office identified the bicyclist as Neill Townsend.
The trucker and the driver of the car remained at the scene, which is close to Walter Payton High School, 1034 North Wells St.
Police don't believe alcohol or drugs played a role in the crash. The driver of the car was ticketed with a traffic offense.
Witnesses say the bicyclist was pinned under the truck.
Ethan Spotts, spokesman for the Active Transportation Alliance, says Friday's tragedy could have been prevented. He said motorists should always check for bicyclists in the bike lane before opening their door.
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