According to a report by GMA News, the unfortunate accident happened at around 8:10 a.m on Tuesday, January 5, 2016.
Lorelei Cruz Melevo, 30, had just dropped off one of her two young kids at school and was riding her bicycle along a clearly marked bike lane along Mayor Gil Fernando street in Marikina when a truck came out of nowhere, running her over, and killing her instantly.
Being a solo parent, she had to do many things herself, which makes this story even more heartbreaking.
The driver of the government truck, Jonathan Silverio, claims he did not see the victim.
He is currently being held at the Marikina City Police Station where he has been charged with a criminal complaint of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide and damage to property.
photo: James Deakin Facebook Page
Could it have been avoided?
According to the “We Like Bike Lanes in RP Movement”, 196 cyclists have died due to accidents such as this one in the past 10 years.
The bike lane on which Lorelei met her untimely end is one of the many bike lanes established to encourage people to ride bikes.
This is not only a more convenient alternative for those who want to save money but for those to want to stay healthy as well.
Rules exist not to hinder us but to protect us and our fellow citizens. Sadly, many motorists take these rules for granted. Because of this tragedy, the Marikina Police strongly urged motorists to respect bike lanes and cyclists.
Accidents like this could be avoided if we do our part to make the roads safe for our loved ones and fellow citizens.
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