News Release from: Clackamas Co. Sheriff's Office

Tragedy averted thanks to mother's gift of new bike helmet

Posted: Aug. 20, 2010, 9:36 a.m.

Crash-scene photos: [ 1 ] [ 2 ] [ 3 ] [ 4 ]

At 2:19 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 18, Clackamas County Sheriff's Office Deputy Robby Nashif responded to an injury crash involving an automobile and bicyclist at the intersection of SE Thiessen Road and SE Oetkin Road in Milwaukie.

As Deputy Nashif arrived on the scene, he saw Clackamas Fire District #1 and American Medical Response personnel attending to the needs of a 13-year-old male bicyclist who had crashed into the right front portion of an automobile. The automobile was reportedly negotiating a left-hand turn at the intersection when it collided with the young bicyclist. The driver of this automobile was not injured in the collision.

As Deputy Nashif began investigating the collision, he was astounded by the extent of damage sustained to the automobile's fender and windshield, the child's bicycle, and the youngster's helmet. He examined and photographed the damaged automobile, bicycle and helmet.

These photographs (linked above) clearly illustrate the life-saving value of the child's bike helmet.

According to Deputy Nashif, "If he hadn't been wearing his helmet, he would probably have died with massive head injuries -- no doubt about it!"

The injured 13-year-old was transported from the crash scene to a Portland hospital and released Thursday afternoon (Aug. 19). His mother reports that her son is recuperating at home at this writing -- although he is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries to his hip, pelvis and toe.

The mother of the 13-year-old very conscientiously provided her child with an appropriate helmet for protection. In fact, Deputy Nashif was impressed to learn that just last week, the mother had purchased a new "skateboard"-style helmet (worn during the crash) -- because the boy's previous helmet had been destroyed by the family dog. This newly acquired helmet is what ultimately saved the life of this child.

The 77-year-old female driver of the involved automobile was cited for conducting an improper left-hand turn, and will be requested to re-test for continued driving privileges.

The child -- a firm believer in helmet protection -- is recuperating at his home in Milwaukie, and is willing to discuss the event with interested media outlets. Contact the Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer for contact information.

[END]

Contact Info: Jim Strovink, Detective
Public Information Officer
Clackamas County Sheriff's Office