Cyclist left with broken back and severed ear after nasty crash
A cyclist's camera has filmed a nasty crash which left the rider with a broken back, a partially severed ear and head injuries.
WARNING, DISTRESSING VIDEO
He only learned what happened when he regained consciousness in hospital.
The cyclist was riding on a country road not far from Darwin, when he was hit from behind by a four-wheel-drive.
Video of the crash was uploaded to Facebook by cycle.org.au, along with an appeal to other drivers to keep their eyes open for cyclists.
“What we don't know is what happened, the rider was knocked unconscious straight after this and he woke up in hospital,” the post read.
“But the aftermath was recorded. The driver and passenger stopped and came back to provide assistance, luckily there was an off duty paramedic close by that came to offer assistance.
“Motorists, please remember, everyone has someone that loves them and wants them home safe.”
The video shows a rear view from the bike as the white 4WD drive approaches from behind.
Within moments the car is on top of the cyclist after it appears to hit him on the left side of the bonnet.
The bike crashes into onto the roadside, as the camera continues to record. According to the camera’s time stamp, the crash occurred about 6.46pm on July 19.
According to cycling.org.au, it has been in touch with the rider who was recovering from his injuries. The group posted a message from the rider about his condition, in which he praised staff at the Royal Darwin Hospital.
“Temporary(hopefully) head injury which is improving daily, broken back in two places, partially severed ear which has been successfully reattached, broken ribs, broken thumb, cuts and abrasions which are healing well also,” the unidentified rider wrote.
“I’ve returned to work and I'm still a little away from getting back on the bike, though immensely looking forward to that). I expect to make a full recovery in due course and I'm grateful to all who have assisted."
According to cycle.org.au, the man was riding on a 60k/ph road when the crash occurred.
“Now, before you wonder what he was doing on such a country road, this is a 5 minute ride from Darwin CBD,” their statement read.
“What was he doing there? Riding. And he is fully entitled to do just that.”
