Speaking with Silence

SUNDAY, OCT. 5 – They rode at a snail’s pace – 10 miles an hour – in the damp chill of this early October afternoon.

They had their bright yellow jackets and helmets on. Barely a sound could be heard from the pedaling or gears changing.

The riderless white bike perched atop the black SUV stood out distinctly.

The rear windshield spoke for the rider: Jill Byelich, 9-2-2014.

Nearly 135 cyclists participated in the Ride of Silence, Tribute to Jill Byelich Sunday. The approximate 16-mile ride from Wacousta to the state Capitol was held in honor of Byelich who was hit and killed while riding her bicycle Sept. 2.

Organizers said her family rode along from Wacousta to the DeWitt Cemetery where Byelich is buried.

“Today, we rode to honor Jill Byelich of DeWitt, who was struck and killed while riding her bike just a month ago,” said Mike Unsworth, who is head of the advocacy committee for the Tri-County Bicycle Association. “But now, we are not silent. We’re at the Capitol again to remind lawmakers and ask them to take action that will better protect bike riders here in mid-Michigan and across the state.”

Unsworth spoke before the crowd of cyclists and supporters at the Capitol.

“Last year 27 bicyclists were killed in Michigan,” he said. “A 35 percent increase from 2012. Additionally 1,479 bicyclists were injured during that timeframe.”

Unsworth said the state Senate passed the Nathan Bower Law Friday, that will enhance drivers education in Michigan by including more information concerning the law pertaining to bicycles and motorcycles, emphasizing awareness of their operation on streets, roads and highways.

The bill is being sent back to the House to approve changes made by the Senate.

Another piece of legislation he emphasized was the Vulnerable Roadway Users house bills 4792 and 5080 which would create enhanced penalties for drivers who injure or kill vulnerable roadway users. Many states have passed or are considering vulnerable user laws which could include more substantial fines for drivers who seriously injure or kill vulnerable users – cyclists, pedestrians or others. Advocates say it will give police and prosecutors another option to charge reckless drivers with besides vehicular manslaughter.