Young cyclist remembered

Today's Kansas City Star had an article about activities commemorating Dan Eiermann, an Independence middle school student who was killed while riding his bicycle last fall.

"Dan was struck about 8 p.m. Sept. 27 by a 1984 Ford Mustang when the boy tried biking across 23rd Street in Independence. Police said the motorist had the right-of-way and officials found no wrongdoing."

The incident raised questions about whether cyclists and pedestrians need better facilities for safely crossing streets like 23rd Street. 23rd Street is a four-lane street with heavy, fast-moving traffic. There is much pedestrian and bicycling activity in the area; area teenagers and adults can often be seen walking along or crossing 23rd Street. 23rd Street has very minimal facilities to help pedestrians and young cyclists cross the street safely.

This incident, which happened after dark, also reminds cyclists of the importance of adequate lighting. A headlight and rear reflector or light are required by state law when riding after dark.