BikeTexas board and staff are appalled and horrified at the recent news from Waller County that a 16-year-old driver of a diesel truck struck multiple people riding bicycles while attempting to “roll coal” on a group of bicyclists. All of the people who he hit with his truck were transported to the hospital.
We fully support and join with BikeHouston, BikeWaller, and other local bicycle organizations in calling for the young man to be held accountable for his actions. We are very concerned that the driver was allowed to leave the scene without even being issued a traffic citation. We do not know if he was tested for drugs or alcohol.
Intentional exhaust smoke, close passes, and other attempts to harass and intimidate bicyclists are unacceptable behaviors for drivers of any vehicle. BikeTexas calls on elected officials, policymakers, educators, law enforcement, and drivers from all over Texas to work to see these behaviors eradicated from our streets and roads. Our roads aren’t safe until all road users are safe.