County: Sweeper Was Removing Cycling Hazards When Cyclist Slammed into It

A bicyclist was critically injured Monday afternoon when he crashed into the back of a Jackson County road sweeper as he rode downhill on Dead Indian Memorial Road east of Ashland. Oregon State Police troopers are continuing the investigation and asking for help from any additional witnesses traveling in the area when the crash happened.

According to OSP Lt. Brian Powers, at approximately 3:15 p.m. Monday Michael James McLeod, 53, was riding his bicycle downhill westbound on Dead Indian Memorial Road near milepost 10 when he crashed into the rear of a westbound Jackson County road sweeper.  The road sweeper was traveling approximately 5 to 8 mph actively sweeping at the time of collision.

A steep and twisting two lane road through scenic country, Dead Indian Memorial Road is popular with cyclists. In an unfortunate ironic twist, the sweeper was removing hazards to cycling, such as gravel and cinder used for winter traction, said John Vial, diector of Jackson County's roads department. The sweeper was also preparing the road for striping, cleaning off accumulated dust and dirt, Vial said.

McLeod was wearing a bicycle helmet.  He was transported by Mercy Flights air ambulance to Rogue Valley Medical Center with critical injuries. His driver license indicated an Imperial Beach, Calif. address. He was listed in critical condition at RVMC Tuesday morning.

The road sweeper's operator, Charles Mondale, age 52, from Phoenix, was not injured.

Mercy Flights, Medford Police Department, Jackson County Sheriff's Office and Jackson County Road Department assisted at the scene.

OSP troopers are asking any witnesses to contact the OSP Southern Regional Command Center dispatch at (541) 664-4600.

COMMENT ON THIS STORY