(PORTLAND, Maine) Nov 3, 2022 – An 89 year-old man was killed Wednesday night on Route 1 while crossing the road. In the past week, two pedestrians and a bicyclist have been killed on Maine roads.
“We are saddened by these events and send our deepest condolences to the victim’s loved ones,” said Bicycle Coalition of Maine Executive Director Jean Sideris. “This has been a particularly devastating week, with two pedestrians and a cyclist killed. We need to invest in more pedestrian and bicycle facilities and take strong action to make our roads safer for all users.”
The identity of the victim has not been released. He was hit around 6 p.m. in front of the Hampton Inn. According to police, speed was not a factor and there was no indication of driver intoxication.
Google data indicates that there is no crosswalk at the Hampton Inn, and the nearest one from the reported crash location appears to be more than 1300 feet away. The posted speed at this location is 40mph.
The BCM urges law enforcement to carefully examine the roadway conditions, pedestrian facilities, history of crashes at this location, driver behavior, phone use records, and any additional circumstances that may have been contributing factors.
As the days get shorter and darker, the Bicycle Coalition of Maine reminds drivers to slow down and pay extra attention in locations where pedestrians or bicycle riders are likely to appear. Pedestrians and bicyclists are reminded to consider their visibility in low light conditions, and to use lights or reflective materials to help increase their conspicuity.
By the Coalition’s count, this is the tenth pedestrian killed on Maine roadways in 2022.
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The Bicycle Coalition of Maine works to make Maine a better and safer place to bike and walk. Founded in 1992, the Bicycle Coalition of Maine has grown into the leading bicycle and pedestrian advocacy group in the state. The Coalition believes all Mainers should have access to bikes and bike education, and we envision a future where Maine’s roads, public ways, and trails are safe and accessible, resulting in cleaner travel options, improved health, and stronger economic benefits for Maine communities.