KUCHING — A 78-year-old foreign man was killed after the bicycle he was riding collided with a lorry along Jalan Pelabuhan Pending here on Monday morning.
The fatal accident occurred on 16th March at about 9.30am and involved an Isuzu lorry driven by a local man and the elderly cyclist. The Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Division of the Kuching District Police Headquarters confirmed receiving a report on the incident shortly after it happened.
Kuching District Police Chief Alexson Naga Anak Chabu said initial investigations revealed that the lorry was travelling straight in the middle lane from Jalan Senari towards Jalan Pelabuhan Pending at the time of the accident.
According to early findings, the cyclist was riding in the far left lane. He is believed to have suddenly moved into the middle lane, resulting in a collision with the left side of the lorry. The impact caused the cyclist to suffer serious injuries.
The victim was rushed to Sarawak General Hospital for treatment. However, despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead at approximately 12.00 noon while receiving treatment.
Police inspections at the scene found that the lorry did not sustain any visible damage. In contrast, the bicycle suffered damage to its right front section, indicating the point of impact during the collision.
The case is currently being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, which covers causing death by reckless or dangerous driving. Further investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
ACP Alexson urged all road users to exercise caution and remain vigilant at all times, especially when changing lanes. He reminded motorists and cyclists alike to follow traffic rules strictly in order to prevent unnecessary loss of life.
The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks faced by vulnerable road users, particularly senior citizens who cycle on busy roads. Road safety awareness and mutual respect among road users remain crucial in ensuring safer journeys for everyone.
