Annual Ride of Silence raises bicycle safety awareness in Charles City

By Travis Fischer, tkfischer@charlescitypress.com

More than 30 riders gathered outside the Pub on the Cedar in Charles City on Wednesday, May 17, to promote bicycle safety and to remember those who have been killed or injured in bicycle accidents.

Originating 20 years ago in Dallas, the Ride of Silence has become an annual event nationwide dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers bicyclists can face on the road.

Bob Krueger has been organizing the ride in Charles City since 2004, encouraging riders to be mindful about safety concerns.

“I think people are being more cautious about going down country roads,” said Krueger.

The ride also serves as a way to remember people who have lost their lives in cycling accidents – a subject particularly close to Floyd County, which has seen three fatal accidents in the last 10 years. Brian Lauterbach (2014), Bob Phillips (2016), and Ellen Bengtson (2020) were recognized with a prayer and a moment of silence before the bikers began their lap through the city.

To lower the risk of future accidents, Krueger offered the riders safety tips. From common sense advice like obeying traffic laws and wearing visible clothing and safety gear, to more subtle tips like performing routine maintenance on your bicycle and making sure to stay properly hydrated, there are many things riders can do to increase their safety on the roads.

At the same time, there is little one can do about a distracted driver. Krueger lamented that the most recent attempt at passing a “hands-free driving” law did not make it through the Legislature in this session.

Still, the riders were able to enjoy a pleasant evening for their ride, doing their part to encourage vigilance in bicycle safety habits.

“It’s an unfortunate reality that bicyclists are at risk of being hit on the roads,” said Pastor Mike Downey. “It’s really a way to make the public aware.”