Six German track cyclists sustained major bone fractures when a vehicle collided with them on a Mallorca Spain road during their training ride on Wednesday. Pro riders traditionally train at Llucmajor because of its winter riding conditions although the collision occurred near town limits.
The six-team cyclists of Germany suffered multiple fractures after an elderly motorist crashed into them while racing in Mallorca, Spain’s popular riding route outside Llucmajor. While performing rural road exercises the group encountered an accident when an 89-year-old motorist crossed into their temporary lane.
Timely emergency responders rushed sportsmen to a hospital-based nearby. The examination revealed that these cyclists had various fractures in combination with additional injuries. Doctors now expect they will need surgery together with extended rehabilitation despite maintaining stable health at present.
During the accident, Germany’s national track cycling coach Lucas Schädlich trailed the racing team from his support vehicle. According to his eyes, the area displayed a dreadful sight. Independent reports claim that when the car rushed forward the cyclists could not escape.
The riders stayed within the freeway’s right side alongside safety requirements before a vehicle materialized before their eyes. Schädlich said to German media that “there was nothing they could do to avoid it.”
While remaining on site the driver declared to police he was unable to spot the cyclists before their collision. Spanish investigative authorities established their goal to determine which combination of negligence or alternative factors triggered the incident.
The BDR expressed a breath of relief that, though the injuries are serious, they are not life-threatening. Witnessed by the three teams, however, could have serious career-threatening repercussions for the riders. The Federation has asked for improved safety conditions on the roads for cyclists, particularly on those roads that are most commonly used for training.
“Yet another reminder of how vulnerable cyclists are on roads,” says the BDR statement. “We plead with the authorities and motorists to do all they can to prevent such tragedies from occurring.”
The incident has once again brought forward the idea of road safety in Spain, still concerned about cycling accidents involving motorists. Mallorca has attracted professional teams and amateur riders who have lately reported numerous fatal collisions.
For the moment, the injured cyclists are focusing on their recovery while their teammates and supporters are hoping they can race again soon.
