Melbourne driver fined $1000 for cyclist's 'car-door' death
Christine Savic is fined $1,000 dollars by Melbourne Magistrates Court for the "unintended catastophic outcome" of opening her door into a cyclist
Cyclists have described the $1,000 fine handed to a driver in Melbourne, who knocked a cyclist under the wheels of a truck when she opened her car door, as too lenient.
Alberto Paulon, 25, was riding along Sydney Road in the Australian city with his fiancée Christina when Christine Savic's opening car door hit him and sent him into the path of a passing truck.
According to yahoo.com.au, Melbourne Magistrates Court heard that Ms Savic looked for cyclists in her side mirror before getting out of her car, but she only saw Paulon's fiancée approaching and waited for her to pass.
>>> Australian ‘anti-cycling’ minister has busy Sydney cycle path removed
As she opened her door, she clipped Paulon and he fell under the rear wheels of the truck and died instantly. Upon handing down the fine, Magistrate Brian Clifford described Ms Savic's action as having an "unintended catastophic outcome".
But Ed Hore from the Australian Cycling Alliance said that the fine was insufficient for the life that was taken away.
“$1000 is how much Alberto's life was worth… Without proper penalties there is no incentive to look out for another human being,” he said, reported on yahoo.com.au.
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
>>> “What is something annoying that a cyclist might do?” asks Australian game show
Paulon's fiancée Christina, however, told Australia's 7News that she understood that Paulon's death was an accident and that no amount of money would bring her partner back.
VicRoads, the government body that looks after roads in the state of Victoria, has said a segregated cycle way along Sydney Road would be the safest option, but a spokesman said there is no commitment to a 'grander plan' than the current painted road warnings.
Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access
Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription
Join now for unlimited access
Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
Stuart Clarke is a News Associates trained journalist who has worked for the likes of the British Olympic Associate, British Rowing and the England and Wales Cricket Board, and of course Cycling Weekly. His work at Cycling Weekly has focused upon professional racing, following the World Tour races and its characters.
-
What to wear cycling: A temperature-by-temperature cycling dress guide
Layer like a pro and stay comfortable year-round
By Kristin Jenny Published
-
The Garmin Forerunner 945 crashes to a stunning price for Black Friday 2024 at Walmart
Deals The Forerunner 945 is now at its lowest-ever price with a massive $310 off
By Paul Brett Published