Teen Cyclist's Death Shines Light On Safety Upgrade Needs: Report

BETHESDA, MD — A Montgomery County lawmaker is urging state and local officials to make safety improvements on Old Georgetown Road in Bethesda, where a teen cyclist died earlier this week.

"We have so many problem areas, honestly, in the county, all over the county, but I think that this one clearly needs to get to the top of the list," said Montgomery County Councilmember At-Large Hans Riemer, according to WTOP.

Per the news outlet, Riemer says Old Georgetown Road — particularly where this week's fatal accident took place — is one of the most dangerous roadways for bikers.

"Without hesitation, I'd say that stretch of Old Georgetown Road was the worst," Riemer said.

Jacob Cassell, a 17-year-old Bethesda resident, was traveling southbound on the sidewalk Wednesday when he fell into the road and got hit by an SUV. Police say he was rushed to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries and died the following morning.

Since then, Riemer has called on officials to make safety improvements along Old Georgetown Road. But because the Bethesda roadway is state-run, changes must come from the Maryland State Highway Administration.

According to WTOP, Riemer said there isn't enough of an emphasis on bicyclist and pedestrian safety. More specifically, he thinks there should be a buffer between the sidewalk and Old Georgetown Road.

"There's just no margin for error," Riemer said.

The council member said that officials need to do more to separate bicyclists and pedestrians from busy roadways, even if that means adding time to people's commutes.

"If adding 30 seconds on the trip, through Old Georgetown Road into downtown Bethesda means that people are safe and everyone can be comfortable, and we don't have tragedies, that would be a good trade," Riemer said.

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