There is just so much unnecessary sadness about this story. Having lived on Foothill Road since the mid-1990's I witness first hand the reckless, inconsiderate and selfish behavior of drivers and motorcyclists who use the road as a racetrack especially on the weekends. Besides the speed, often the motorcyclist noise is deafening. Just this Saturday there were a series of racers including some orange high price sports car tearing up and down the road. A biker on this narrow road wouldn't have a chance.

Because the road is rural, scenic and fun to ride on, it is popular with runners and bikers but there are stretches with blind spots and most of the road has no shoulders. You're on your own there with the texters, cell phone users and racers. And, I might add, the human mind doesn't fully mature, to the extent that it does with some people, until the mid-20's.

It's a sad story. My heart goes out to the family. I lived along that stretch if the road and I bike a lot. But I chose not to bike along Foothill coz road is so narrow. It's just not worth the risk. I have only 1 life and there are so many biking trails. So it's a personal choice. There are some people testing that stretch as a race track. And I also have came across some inconsiderate cyclist. Unless the road is widened and a bike lane is in place I would excercise caution.

Right on, Tom. Even the legal speed limit on Foothill seems high, given its varied nature and lack of shoulders. I have never seen any effort to enforce the limit, either.

I'm confused by the title. Was she a Pleasanton or Dublin resident? I feel badly that she lost her life but we don't know if it was the young man's fault or if the problem was her riding next to her husband. Dangerous thing to do in that part of Foothill Road.

This is why I've given up road cycling and switched to mountain biking. I was nearly hit by a driver on Foothill Rd and it wasn't in a blind spot - it was right at Castlewood. Bay area traffic is too dangerous for cycling.

In response to the last comment.. does it matter where this woman lived? I would guess that the bike riders were riding in single file and if they weren't, does that mean the driver is not responsible if he hit her?? Come on... people cross the street and don't use crosswalks... if you hit someone that is not in a crosswalk does it make you not responsible? The issue here is that too many cyclists have been hit and sustained serious injuries or have been killed. If you are driving on ANY road and there is a cyclist on the road as well, you should pay close attention.. Focus on the issue!

Very sad story, but not surprised and shocked it doesn't happen on a weekly basis. I hike the ridge weekly and although there are many cars driving much too fast, there are just as many cyclists not obeying their own set of laws. Just yesterday a cyclist was in the center of the lane, even though she saw I was in back, refused to move over. I've also encountered too many paired up cyclists where they literally take over the entire road. So this is a situation where cars and cyclists are not obeying the laws on a dangerous road.

No matter who is at fault, these people's lives have been changed forever. A woman lost her life, a man lost his wife, a young adult will have to live with the fact that he was involved with someone dying. I have driven that road many times and I agree with a previous post...speed limit is too high for the whole stretch of Foothill. It should be lowered. But even if it is lowered, there will still be people racing their cars and motorcycles down that road. Bicyclists will still take the risk and ride where there is no shoulder. All we can do is be more aware of each other and share the road. If you live in Pleasanton, you know that there are lots of bicyclists that use Foothill so take precautions - expect them - and slow down. Bicyclists - you know the road is narrow, ride single file not in bunches down the road.

My prayers go out to the families of all involved.

This is a very sad accident. Prayers to all involved. Travelling Foothill daily, I feel anxious when cyclist are present. I fear they will hit a rock or some way loose control of the cycle. Many are not riding single file and don't stop at stop signs. The bike lane is very narrow in many places. I believe most drivers are courteous and would never want to harm a cyclist. A horrible ACCIDENT. Don"t blame the young driver until all info is given.

What a sad story. I feel for all the parties involved. I live off Foothill road and am also an occasional bike rider. I agree with most of the comments that Foothill road is not a road that should be used without full awareness of what is happening around you. There are too many turns on a narrow road to allow for any activities other than paying attention. I would like to see greater enforcement of ALL the traffic laws on Foothill road. Speeding motorists need to slow down and be alert. Bike riders need to follow the same laws as cars. Stop signs and traffic lights are not suggestions for bike riders. If you want everyone to SHARE the road, EVERYONE needs to obey traffic laws and be cautious on Foothill Road.

Why doesn't the city widen Foothill and provide a wide bike lane? I'm saddened and suprised that there aren't more fatalities on Foothill.

This is indeed a very sad story. Here is what I have to say about this accident ... I am a cyclist and I am a car driver. I have been hit by a car while riding my bike. I would NEVER ride my bike on Foothill Road. Ever !!! Expecially along side someone. But, placing blame on this accident is not my place, nor for anyone else. My heart goes out to the Dublin rider, her family... and to the driver as well. This horrible event will be with that young driver for their entire life.

Accidents like this one are a terrible tragedy for everyone who is getting involved, but I afraid this is not the last time it happened on Foothill road. The road is too narrow, in many places bike lane does not exist and even a single cyclist blocks big part of the driving lane. Often it's not possible for a car to pass a bike if there is a traffic in both direction. The only solution is to us to learn to always leave enough space for a bicycle and do not try to pass it if it's not safe.

Very sad accident. A month ago I slowed down to 25 mph because there were 4 riders,(who were in their 50's) riding side by side and talking to each other and not paying attention. Not only do the cars speed on that road, but some bike riders drift out to the car lanes. We all need to respect each other space. God Bless the family

Foothill Road is narrow with just enough room for vehicle traffic in two directions. Two people riding next to each other pegs the risk meter and is totally irresponsible. Very sad to lose a life, but people are free to make choices. In this case, they put themselves in a very dangerous situation. Someone died and it does not really matter if the young driver made a mistake or something else happened. The person is still dead. Bottom line, these bike riders made a bad choice.

to our dear dear friends...Joe and Diana.....always in our hearts....Reaching out to your family,from ours.....W Re here for you!

If the deceased was from Dublin, will Dublin be charged for the services, or will Pleasanton be left holding the bag?

Properly engineered bike lanes (Web Link need to be mandatory for all primary roads, especially those with higher (>25 mph) speed limits. Foothill Road is one of the most popular biking routes in the entire Bay Area, not just Pleasanton, and yet it suffers from narrow or no shoulders, blind curves (the worst is at the intersection of Foothill and Muirwood, where the shoulder literally disappears right at the apex of an uphill blind curve -- a perfect storm of bad traffic design), and high speed limits that are rarely enforced. In addition, because of Foothill High School, a larger than normal portion of the drivers are inexperienced drivers under the age of 20. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of the families involved, and I pray Pleasanton does something about this road before more lives are lost and ruined.

Very sad.

I don't know the details, but I am curious to know if the kid was texting, drinking, or if the couple was riding side-by-side, rather than in-line.

Regarding cycling. I've seen, on many occasions, cyclist riding side-by-side rather than in-line. Is side-by-side cycling legal? It certainly seems a lot more dangerous as this style of riding typically puts one of the cyclist nearly in the middle of the lane. I'm not saying the couple was riding like this, but I have seen it from time to time and it sure seems wrong.

Freddie, who cares? Geez!

From what I understand this is a kid (the driver) who is known to travel at very high speeds around town. I do not want to assume anything in this particular case but speeding down Foothill Rd. and bikers on that stretch of road do not mix well. Dangerous enough when all are following the laws and using common sense. We will have to wait for the full report to be released. My heart goes out to all the families, especially Diana's husband.

Kurt wrote: "Foothill Road is one of the most popular biking routes in the entire Bay Area, not just Pleasanton, and yet it suffers from narrow or no shoulders, blind curves (the worst is at the intersection of Foothill and Muirwood, where the shoulder literally disappears right at the apex of an uphill blind curve -- a perfect storm of bad traffic design)..."

I wasn't aware that Foothill Road was that popular with bicyclists. About 6 years ago I taught my wife how to drive by using Foothill Road in order for her to get familiar with basic steering and stopping since there wasn't very much traffic or many stoplights or stop signs on that road. I don't recall seeing even a single cyclist during our practice sessions. If I had seen many cyclists, I would have chosen a different road for training.

I agree that Foothill Road in its present state is not a very safe road for cyclists. And I think that the intersection of Muirwood and Foothill is the most dangerous intersection that I'm aware of in Pleasanton. I've told my wife to never make a left turn onto Foothill from Muirwood at that intersection but instead use the Foothill at West Las Positas intersection.

Our condolences to the Hersevoort family. This is so very tragic. I truly hope the driver is held accountable to the maximum extend by law. He is known for driving at excessive speeds. Maybe others can learn from this tragedy.

Sad for all. I ride my bike all over Pleasanton. I mostly choose the sidewalks, bike paths and roads designed with ample bike lane. ( Pleasanton drivers are not very aware). And given the choice, I ride my mountain bike, as I've hit many a tree, and find the thought much better than a car. When I ride on foothill up to the trails, I right on the right side of the white line! Never to the left, in traffic! And I'm a pretty skilled, experienced rider: 8 hours a week since age 5? Not many riders with that many hours....

I've also driven on foothill a lot. Not fast. Having Been on both side: This side by side riding is patently absurd! Add to it, i hear this kids car is loud. If the cyclist looked over her left shoulder at the sound of his car, she likely would have drifted to the left. It's a VERY common thing. This could have put her right in the kids path! And if she bounced off the car, and into her husband... this disaster could have unfolded just like that!

All 3 of them! Why is it anyone's fault!?!?! The kids life is forever changed. Even if he does drive fast, he didnt deserve a lesson like this.

i have lived in that area since the mid 70s. we used to ride around town on our bikes as kids and i will tell that as a young boy in that area we had more common sense than ALL the bicyclist on the road today. read the article, they were riding side by side! meaning one of them was in the roadway. even when theres a bike lane and its only one bicyclist they're right on top of the solid white line, thats the problem. none of them ( THE BICYCLIST ) have a brain between them. ever watch them approach a stop sign, they run right through it, everytime without fail ! the people on the bikes in this area are ALL arrogant asses, who have no regaurd for common sense or common courtesy. i dont have all the facts in regaurd to the accident over the weekend and i am sorry for that families loss but the fact they were riding side by side says alot of who was at fault. i will bet anyone half million dollars i can meet with you at the intersection of castlewood and foothill and take the bet that the next bicyclist that comes down foothill road will run the stop sign hard. its a perfect indicator of the FOOLS that ride bikes these days. i hope the young man driving is doing ok, but theres a very good chance this kid was on his phone / texting. and that is without hearng anything on the use of a phone. its just the foolish, arrogant, stupidity that the liberal agenda teaches our kids / society. KIDS BE SMART, BE INTELIGENT, THINK FOR YOURSELVES, NOT OF YOURSELVES !!!!!

You are so ignorant. You have NO official facts. Most of the time the media reports incorrect facts at the onset of an events. Unless you see the official police investigative report you have NO right to assume the cyclist was riding side by side with her partner. You have NO right to assume the driver was texting or using a phone.

Until the official facts come out no one should judge anyone. And when the official facts come out and IF there is wrongdoing, then the courts will sort that out.

Oh and by the way "regaurd" is spelled "regard"

She was riding 5 feet in front of him. He was speeding. These are facts I have known this family for 20 years.

As a regular weekend road biker. I am aware of the dangers. I spend 4 hours every weekend riding my bike riding through dublin, pleasanton, and livermore. I agree that cyclist should not ride 2 wide unless they fit in the bike line while doing so(some bike lines are wide enough). My wife and I ride single file 90% of the time. We do not wear headphones and we call out when cars are going to pass us. We were almost hit on a small road in the back of livermore this weekend. We were riding single file on a 2 lane road with no shoulder. we had not seen a car for 20 minutes. I saw the car behind us and called out to my wife. we both go as far over in the lane as we could. the speed limit was 30 and this person was doing at least 60 and did not give us room. they came within a foot of my handles bars. Sometimes both parties are at fault and sometimes it is clearly one party. I am aware of the dangers of road biking but I am very safe. But drivers need to share the road when there is not a bike lane. This was a horrible accedent but hopefully this will bring about some awarness for drivers and prevent future deaths.

My heartfelt prayers are with All the victims, the woman, her husband, the teenager AND his parents. As a parent myself, when I heard about the accident I was extremely worried because my daughter was not home, then I heard it was a white car and I didn't worry so much. There are so many accidents on Foothill Road between Castlewood and Golden Eagle, many having to do with deer so I figured it might have been a deer that was hit, then I heard it was a crime scene and thought someone had hit a tree trying to avoid hitting the deer or a bicyclist and hit the tree. So many different scenarios played out in my head, but when I heard it was a teenager and a bicyclist had died, the only thing I could think of was several lives are ruined, the husband and wife will no longer celebrate anniversaries or enjoy holidays with their kids or each other, the teens life is no longer his/her own and let's not forget the teens' parents - they too may suffer the loss of their child, not to mention their emotional upheaval. Everyone needs our support, the accident happened and it cannot be taken back. Let's work on trying to help the living while attempting to fix the Foothill Road problem. I drive Foothill Road daily and agree with everyone's comments about the lack of courtesy by many of the bicyclists (yes, they do ride side by side 4 x 4 and many of them are so intent on getting to their destination that they do not move over for cars, especially if they don't hear them. I see many bicyclists wearing ear buds, I drive a hybrid which is very silent and many times have to wait until oncoming traffic is no longer visible to pass the bicyclists. I agree that many of the people driving on Foothill Road are inexperienced, but I have not seen a driver that has been rude to the bicyclists (I'm sure they're out there). When my kids first started driving to school I was terrified that they would hit a pedestrian, a deer/turkey/raccoon/ skunk or a bicyclist, not because they were poor drivers, but because I knew if they had to suddenly veer out of the way my kids would either hit a tree, a fence or possibly veer onto oncoming traffic. The Foothill Road is narrow, with blind spots, and treacherous for anything other then a motor vehicle, especially between Bernal in Pleasanton all the way to Sunol (South).

Too many Foothill Road tragedies. Living here for decades, I have
seen crosses and flowers at death sites of accidents up and down
Foothill Road...I would never risk my life on a bicycle on any
public road... this is not the 1940's when cars were scarce and
your chances of being hit by a car were minimal... Today, with
more people, more cars, more speed, well GOOD LUCK. Our family
goes to the Gym where we can ride a bike for hours without fear.
For years I have seen bicycle riders refusing to yield so many times on Foothill.... They refuse to ride inside their lanes causing all
kinds of problems for two way traffic... My solution::: PROHIBIT
BICYCLE TRAFFIC ON FOOTHILL.... If not, we will continue to hear Police and Fire engine sirens in the future... Ask yourself,
IS IT REALLY WORTH IT to ride a bicycle in this day and age? If you
answer yes, well, remember One instant can change your life forever.
God makes you perfect once - the rest is up to you.

Pleasanton police Lt. Brian Laurence said Hersevoort was riding alongside her husband, going north on Foothill Road, when both were struck by a car just after 1 p.m.

Looks like side by side to me. They made a very bad choice.

Part of the definition of being a teen is thinking nothing bad will ever happen to you. So when you are driving, or drinking, or using, or just living, you think you are in charge, know it all (or most of it), and are taking adequate precautions. In spite of what older people tell you.

As a careful adult, I readily admit to MANY near misses in my life -- horrible accidents that did not happen because I was driving slowly, being extra careful, looked an extra time, or just plain good luck that I did not deserve. I bet all of us older people can recall such adrenalin-exploding events that we got a pass on.

Personally, I don't see why it is is not possible for drivers to go very slow on Foothill, never mind the posted speed limit. I find bicyclist riding side-by-side or all over the road a cheerful sight, a nice thing (and yes, very unsafe as well). No problem for me in going around them in a careful way with a smile. If I can't see around a turn, I slow down. I live in (reasonable) fear of an approaching car that is going too fast and is in my lane. And add that to bicyclists on my other side, and it is a likely disaster. A teen does not think like that. Some teens grow out of that, some never do. Ditto re playing it straight on the issues of texting, phoning, or talking while driving -- whether one is a teen or an adult. Playing it straight is not even enough, but it's better than thinking you will beat the odds.

Like so many others, I grieve for all the victims in this awful accident. Our terrific and endlessly helpful police will sort out the details far better than we can here. For now, I can only grieve for all.

Such a tragedy. I am 52, and mountain bike with my husband and am also a mother of a 17 and 20 year old who drive. This is such a tragedy to all the victims. My prayers go out to everyone impacted by this horrible event. This brings so much sorrow to our community.

As a cyclist who rides at least weekly on Foothill Rd, I am saddened by this tragic accident. Many motorists are uninformed about the law when it comes to cyclists. California law actually encourages cyclists to "take the lane" when there isn't room for a bicycle and car side by side in the lane. I don't have the courage to do that for fear of angry motorists. From the DMV website:

When to Take the Traffic Lane

Many roads do not have designated bicycle traffic lanes, so bicyclists share the traffic lane to the left of the white line. If there is no shoulder or bicycle lane and the traffic lane is narrow, ride closer to the center of the lane. This will prevent motorists from passing you when there is not enough room. Bicyclists can travel at speeds of 20 mph, or faster. You should also use the traffic lane when you are traveling at the same speed as the traffic around you. This will keep you out of motorists’ blind spots and reduce conflicts with right-turning traffic.

Motorists Passing Bicyclists

Be patient when passing a bicyclist. Slow down and pass only when it is safe. Do not squeeze the bicyclist off the road. If road conditions and space permit, allow clearance of at least three feet when passing a bicyclist.

(Post removed by Pleasanton Weekly staff as inappropriate commentary.)

Avid cyclist, riding 400+ miles every month. I get a lot of time out there and experience mostly extremely courteous drivers, but also a few knuckleheads. A thought for all drivers: if I were riding a horse instead of a bike, would you treat me the same? Why not?

So sad for the victim and her family, and the young man and his family. Nothing good here.

The bike lanes on foothill are too thin to stay in their own bike lanes, therefore it should not be considered usable. Until they are made safe, you are risking your life and the life of others while biking there. Pleasanton has lots of trails and areas where it is safe to bike, why risk your life???

There should be signs "Use Bike Lanes at your Own Risk" posted along Foothill.

@saddened. The same can be said for Crow Canyon Road, Cull Canyon Road, Norris Canyon, Tassajara, and Niles Canyon, etc. Yet, bikes and cars have to share the roadway. Cyclist have to courteous to cars and vis versa.

Freddie sounds like good ol' Arnold. (We don't need Fireman or police anymore). Freddie FYI, it doesn't matter where the victim is from, it is the city/county that the incident happens in the bears the fiscal responsibility for the emergency call/investigation, etc. If you live in Pleasanton (I hope not) and are riding your bike along the PCH say in Malibu, and get hit and killed by a car (God forbid), do you really think Pleasanton would pay for the investigation and emergency services? Please, please let's think before we type.

Thoughts and prayers for victims family.

Rene,

Your attitude towards people is horrible. This is a tough time for everyone, but there is no need to attack someone like that and make the situation even worse than it already is. Grow up a little and control your actions towards people. My condolences go out to everyone involved in the situation. God bless

I was doing my Pleasanton Ridge exercising yesterday and when I saw police blocking Foothill to the north from Castlewoord, I already thought something really bad must have happened. And it did. This really gets under my skin.
I take Foothill south from Castlewood as nice warmup from my home before going into the steep Pleasanton Ridge uphill, but probably will stop doing so. I'm paying a lot of attention to road conditions, approaching cars, and I pay attention to stops and try to stay as much to the right of the road as possible. But yes, it would not need a lot of "touching" from a car to get injured seriously. Not worth it. I'll switch to warm-up at the ridge park from now on.
My thoughts go out to the involved. It will be hurting on both sides regardless of who ultimately will be responsible.

I've been driving on Foothill Rd. since the mid-70s, and the entire stretch from 580 to Bernal has become populated, meaning a lot more traffic buzzing north and south. From the beginning, when you could tear donkey all the way from 580 to Niles and 90% of the time not see another car, I felt it was much too narrow for bikes and cars to share safely, and let's not even talk about baby strollers. Two of my kids walked a stretch of it to Foothill High, and another one will be doing the same next year. Bikes are out, though, not because I think cars should slow down and exercise a whole lot more caution, which they should, but because I love my kids and don't want to gamble their safety on a road that's just not made to be safe.

And for anyone who thinks it's a good idea to ride on a road without shoulders or adequate and well-defined bike lanes, you're on your own because that's tempting fate as far as I can see.

Mike

Just had to get in my car and drive on Foothill to where this tragedy happened yesterday. I was surprised how relatively wide-open this section of road is with a decent straightaway and curbing and sidewalk. This didn't happen on one of the notorious curves which lie further south. If this 18-year old didn't see them he would have had to have been speeding and/or distracted in a major way to have hit them.

Along the road is a small bunch of flowers in a makeshift memorial to a woman who lived and breathed just yesterday, never guessing that when she headed out with her husband for some exercise, that her life was soon to end. In the world in which we live today, she's dead and the kid who did it gets to have his identity protected.

I don't mean any disrespect but I think it's pretty obvious there isn't enough room for bikers on Foothill Blvd and they've gotta know they're risking their life if they bike on that road. Roads were made for cars - bicyclists should stay on bike paths. The poor 18 year old driver is probably traumatized and I'll bet he didn't do anything wrong.

@anonymous. I'll take that bet.

Last I heard, the traumatized teen is still alive.

You can count on CONSEQUENCES.

IT WILL HAUNT HIM UNTIL HE DROPS.

time to identify the driver, jeb.

There are some roads that cyclists just should not be on.

And no I do not want my tax money used to pay for making changes for the cyclists. Nope.

"roads that cyclists just should not be on". thank you for that ignorant opinion. the roads are public and open to all traffic. deal with it.

I think as the details emerge to the public we will see that this is a case where the cyclists were well within their road space. The drivers name is well known by now to many in the community whether or not the (Word removed by Pleasanton Weekly Online staff) PPD release it officially. The police and investigators are quite good at establishing speed and any other hazards that may have been present (or not) at the time the car hit the cyclists.

My heart goes out to the husband and his family who lost a love one, and including the driver and his family. It truly doesn't matter where the deceased person was from...."she is gone forever", and it doesn't matter if the city of Dublin or Pleasanton is responsible. Lives are forever changed for both families and the community. We can blame cyclist(s), driver, or both...and "it doesn't change anything!" Lives are changed forever for whatever reason. It is very sad! We can have solutions in making Foothill Rd safer, however, people are going to do what they want to do. The principle and learning experience of this tragic accident will HOPEFULLY make people more aware and to make better choices in life. Thoughts and prayers goes out to both families.

Writing that even if the driver was speeding, he didn't "deserve that lesson" of killing someone is a strange theory. That's like saying if I drive drunk I don't deserve the lesson of killing someone. Actually, I do, and he did.

As a mother of a Foothill student I am continually astonished at this generations use of social media. The drinking, the language the lack of respect. Looking at this young man's twitter and instagram is mind boggling. Again, the drinking and the bragging. I guess many parents think their kids are 18 so they don't have any control over what they do. My personal favorites from his instagram account is a photo of a BMW with a friend's comment, "The fact that ur dad is gonna let u get behind a BMW wheel again is beyond me" or how about a photo of a court docket bragging, "fought my speeding ticket 85+ on foothill road beat it bi---es". These posts are not private and there for anyone to see. My deepest condolences go out to the family of the deceased. Despite the fact that this road is narrow, this appears that it was an accident waiting to happen. RIP Diana Hersevoort and prayers to your family members as you grieve the loss of your loved one.

A car moving at 40 mph goes 58.6 feet per second. Unless the driver has slowed down considerably, there is very little time for a cyclist to get out of the way, if the car is on a collision course. It may be the cyclist that momentarily gets off balance or the car driver who's distracted, to cause an accident; but given the physics of moving cars (mostly 35 to 45mph on Foothill), I'd rather not be riding on a bike on those narrow to non-existent bike lanes.

I do see some Foothill High School kids ride their bikes to school, but they tend to stay on the sidewalk portion between Bernal and FHS, which is ok.

So sorry for those affected by the tragedy.

And, yes, I live on Foothill and regularly hear very fast moving cars and motorcycles on the road.

I really feel for both the families. It is a tragedy and I do wish that people would not be so wicked and hateful. This poor women is gone and this young man will need to live with it and I know for a fact that he will go thru a lot of very difficult things for some time. God bless this women and her family and god bless this young man and his family. I will pray for all of them. It's all so sad.

My parents were not cyclist who had fancy road bikes. They loved each other very much and this was something they did every Sunday. They follow all the rules when it comes to safe riding. If my parents were riding side by side don't you think I would be morning the loss of both of my parents instead of one? My mother was a wonderful person and my family is now broken with the loss of her. The world is now a darker place without her. Please keep your negative comments to yourself, until you know the facts. I'm going by what my father said who was there and had to say goodbye to his wife.

as a high school student who drives, seeing this kind of tragedy really puts stuff into perspective for me. The boy (who i know) has been known for being reckless, stupid and with the attitude of not having a care in the world for anybody. Hopefully, this makes him and everybody around him realize that pleasanton is not a perfect little bubble were mommy and daddy can pay your mistakes away. Also i hope this gives every highschooler in pleasanton the wake up call that they need. Driving drunk is not okay. Driving dangerously fast is not okay. And driving distracted is not okay. Lets all try to stay safe and keep this woman's family in our prayers, and also hope that justice does get served fairly.

I love the fact that phones can take screen shots. In sure he will delete his Instagram by tomorrow (learn to put your junk on private) a&&h$&:

+85 mph on Foothill Road? I don't think that's possible. And in a Dodge Neon to boot.

Amador student...wish all kids were as mature as you.

Take screen shots of the twitter and instagram stuff.

I have pics of everything. Maybe ill email it to all the local news channels or maybe his employer KKIQ

(Post removed by Pleasanton Weekly Online staff for containing unverified or personal information.)

well, well....it seems that this "unidentified" 18 year old has been a well known terrible driver for quite some time...his recklessness now leading to the death of one of the sweetest, most thoughtful women i have ever known, and the pain, injury, and heartache that my best friend of 45 years must now endure....a dead wife for joe....a dead mother for heather and leanne....no more grandma for garrett and cassidy....and a hole in the heart for all of us extended family...hope it was worth it for you,"hot-rod".....now you're a real (Word removed by Pleasanton Weekly staff.)

Yup. The account in question has already been locked out or made private. Sorry, Speed Racer: It won't do you any good. The evidence has already been recorded.

I got copies of everything and all posts. You best believe everyone will see these. You just done messed up

It seems that someone must have informed him all his posts have been copied. And they are still covering for him. Give it up already. He has taken away someone's life. A wife, mother, grandmother and friend. How would you all feel if this was someone you knew? Stop trying to protect this kid

Nice work Sheila! .

Thank you to everyone who is giving my family a voice.

I'm so sorry! That could've been anyone of us-killed by an idiot. It still COULD be anyone of us. We're all vulnerable to stupid, self-centered jerks behind a wheel. A nightmare happened to you. I feel rage that because of a person's irresponsibilty, an innocent person and her family have been robbed of love and life.

Ugh, stop posting ridiculous stuff, everyone knows what you read on the internet is 99% false.

No one here even know the driver. Such BULL, stop posting. I have a 19 year old and would be sickened if his name was released BECAUSE of mean people on this forum who might try to hurt him. There is no trial by internet. For all we know the cyclist darted out in front of the car. JEEZ!

You're wrong DT - some people on here DO know this kid. And his driving habits. Highly unlikely that a 58 year old woman who rides weekly with her husband would just "dart out in front of the car" JEEZ!

DT you're a poster child for stupidity. I know the family personally. He can't be protected for much longer. They have till today to charge him which they will. Mommy and daddy can't save him now like they did with his 85+ speeding ticket;)

Can anybody say the driver's name? Is that a secret?

He hasn't been named because the police have not charged him (yet). Once the charges become public, so will his identity. Until then, please put away the clubs and pitchforks, you tolerant liberals.

I used to drive way to fast when I was in high school. Luckily, I got a ticket before I got into or caused an accident. That ticket slowed me down and may have saved someone's life.

way too fast

We have decided to remove the name of the alleged driver and anything else that could identify him. When the identity is confirmed, we will post it.

Glenn Wohltmann, reporter

Mr. Wohltmann -- I agree with your decision to follow the police's timetable for releasing the identity of the driver. I have a lot of respect for our police here in Pleasanton, and I feel sure they know more than we do about this, plus this is their job. I feel we should support their approach, in which I have confidence. In contrast, most of us who are concerned about this event are new to this kind of a tragedy. No need to think we can call the shots better than the experts in this matter.

re: very alarmed's comment. Seeing and hearing what has been posted about the driver (I saw first hand on his twitter and instagram accounts) it looks like Mommy and Daddy have bailed him out of jams before, and then enabled him by buying/supplying him with other vehicles to continue his ways. I guess if the courts didn't take away his privilege to drive, they surely weren't going to. Maybe having to drive their kid around would have inconvenienced them, I do not know.

I relate this to 'very alarmed's' statement, because I see these kids on the same path. Parents bailing them out of a serious offense, and they are only in middle school. Will these be the boys causing the next reckless driving accident? Statistics probably say yes.

I for one feel very strongly that this 18 yo young man should not have been driving. I hope this becomes very mindful when charges, punishment, and restitution are handed down, although nothing will ever bring back Diana Hersevoort, maybe it can prevent another needless loss.

Your secret is safe with me, Glenn!

;-)

I've gotta wonder what the (alleged) driver is thinking now, though:
"Hmmm. Maybe my boasting of beating an 85 mph speeding ticket on a public social media website wasn't such a great idea after all."

@Al. I don't know...I am still wondering how PPD came up with "juvenile mischief" for the $25,000. worth of vandalism/breaking & entering at HPMS. I will reserve my judgment of their handling of this case until it comes to fruition.

My opinion may not matter, but I do remember learning how to drive with my dad back in the early 80's...He specifically told me that driving was the HUGEST responsibility, because it was as big as giving a life, which meant you could take a life. His words etched in my mind: "YOU HAVE A KNIFE IN YOUR HANDS WHEN YOU GET BEHIND THE WHEEL" If he ever felt I was even braking too hard, accelerating too hard, or that he felt I was too rough of a driver, he would not let me drive at all. I treated his car like gold, and have never had a car accident, knock on wood. My kids say I drive like an "old person" sometimes, so I stay in the slow lane and pay attention. I have four children and one about to learn how to drive. I am holding off letting her do so, because as good as a kid that she is, SHE IS JUST 16. I would rather be inconvenienced by driving her and all of our kids to school for a little longer. She shouldn't have too much freedoms either, THEY ARE TOO YOUNG. Why are parents not appalled at the first signs of trouble in their teens? Damned if I would have driven my dad's car ever again if I got a speeding ticket. What has the parenting world come to? Yes we are up against the internet, it is not Mayberry anymore, but put your damn parenting pants on and don't give up on what these kids are up to. They probably want to be reeled in a bit more than you think. I also happen to be a cyclist who has ridden up and down Foothill many times, and people just have faster cars, and don't care about happiness in others. I love to see people on bikes, and when they slow me down in my car, I actually enjoy seeing them having a great time on their bike. God forbid me for sounding perfect because I am not, and neither are my kids. I have shouting matches with them sometimes when they want something. But guess who wins? ME. It's my way or the highway. Sorry to all of the people involved. Even the kid, who may or may not have been doing the right thing down that road. But there is a saying in Spanish that says in English: Tell me where you have been, and I will tell you where most likely you are headed"

@Angel:

You can start a facebook page and post the pictures you have. And let people add to it with it with what they have.

I have pictures of the Webstagram page with the photo of the court's notice dismissing the charges and the comment regarding beating the citation.

@anon how do I do this? I don't have a Facebook but I will look into it. I copied everything though including comments from his friends. I was going to have them printed today

I hear the anger posted and I feel sad, as a parent of teens I feel it. Most parents try to reason with their kids, try to teach and instill values (respect, integrity, etc) in them that they hope will prevent such tragedies, hoping that they won't be the ones hearing the news that their child died before they do or that their child killed someone. One of my kids said, "The driver just bought himself a ticket straight to prison", I could not believe what I heard. I thought I had taught my kids better then to judge before the facts were in, but like everyone else, my kid already made up his mind, the driver of the vehicle is guilty. The driver may be guilty, but he/she did not run away, He/She took responsibility. He/she too must be in shock. Maybe the driver did not run away because there were too many witnesses, or maybe in that one instant when his/her vehicle hit Diana, he/she grew up, or maybe not. The teenager must be in a lot of anguish, and so must his parents - perhaps not as much anguish as Diana's family, but still in pain. The teens parents are probably wondering, "where did I go wrong, what could I have done to prevent it from happening, why didn't I take his/her car keys away from him/her, I am to blame too because I might have prevented it if only I had been stronger". The knowledge that you killed someone, will haunt him/her the rest of his/her life. I lost a family member to a car accident and the anguish we went through was so bad, we did not think we would survive. Ten years later we are still alive, the kids are in their teens now and thankfully through years of therapy have grown up unafraid to drive (because getting into a vehicle the first few months was terrifying). The first few years, watching movies with a father and his children was heart wrenching, the kids could not watch. Holidays, family celebrations all seemed to have no meaning, and still, occasionally, the sadness comes upon us when we least expect it. The driver of the other vehicle served no time, at all and we were so lifeless we never pursued any further legal action. It was ruled an accident, no drugs or alcohol were involved, suddenly, a young father’s life was taken away from his wife and young children and no one cared that the family had lost their bread winner to an Accident. The provider was gone in an instant and nothing can bring him back, the family struggles daily to make ends meet but the love and support of our family has grown. Our community is a caring one, and hopefully we can and will be there for all of you.

see this fb page listed below. The administrator is anonymous, but put up the site. You don't have to use your real name, but you do have to have an email address, which I guess you could create a new gmail or yahoo email for it. You make it public so anyone can post pics or comments.

Web Link

YellowRose wrote: " The teens parents are probably wondering, "where did I go wrong, what could I have done to prevent it from happening, why didn't I take his/her car keys away from him/her, I am to blame too because I might have prevented it if only I had been stronger".

I think that in most of these cases of a troubled teen getting into trouble with vandalism, reckless driving, etc., that problem is not a big secret. The whole neighborhood usually knows of the problem. So when the inevitable happens, the only ones who are surprised are the parents because they're the only ones who have been in denial or haven't been paying attention. It's called "bad parenting".

To all the parents and adults who are going off about the driver and making extremely disrespectful statements based off 1 or 2 comments he made on social media is probably one of the most ignorant things Ive seen. What gives you guys the right to judge and criticize someone who just experienced one of the most traumatizing things that can happen to someone? I actually know the kid, unlike all you heartless idiots, and he's nothing like the person you people are making him out to be. You know absolutely nothing about what happened, none of you are police officers, so let them handle it and stop trying to make the driver feel worse then he already does. It makes me sick how the older generation feels like they have the right to judge us for no reason. Just for that, were not going to take care of (Words emoved by Pleasanton Weekly staff) when your in the retirement home asking us for help.

Mitchell, I have no doubt this was traumatizing for the young driver, and he and his family have my sympathy for what they will feel for the rest of their lives. It is difficult, however, to read, "someone who just experienced one of the most traumatizing things that can happen to someone?" As difficult as this sad circumstance is for the young man and his family, the loss of this woman's life and to her family is the most traumatizing thing that can happen to someone.

@Angel. Or look at this page

Web Link

If it was one or two comments, you could probably let those go. However, the numerous comments, with backup photos show total disregard for the law, let alone common sense. And all the comments by friends regarding the same subject matter shows many are aware of the type of driver he is. We get to judge him because he just killed someone.

If you are wiling to put your life, feelings, opinions out on a social media site, be prepared for them to come back and bite you in the arss.

I'm not saying that what happened to the driver is more impacting and depressing then what occurred to the woman's life and those who knew and loved her... what I'm trying to get across is that the driver and his family members could very well be reading what you guys are saying and there's just no need for the hurtful remarks that are adding unnecessary trauma and pain to the family that is already going through so much. I'm simply stating that you guys should show some compassion instead of posting things such as " I really pray he goes to jail"... theres no need for any of that

@Mitchell,
The driver and his family should be reading about how to defend against a Vehicular Manslaughter charge (if the stories about his reckless driving are true), not comments on the PW. This is a tragedy that was entirely unnecessary, and it should offend all decent people.

@Mitchell

"... what I'm trying to get across is that the driver and his family members could very well be reading what you guys are saying and there's just no need for the hurtful remarks that are adding unnecessary trauma and pain to the family that is already going through so much."


I hope they ARE reading this. The parents are responsible for enabling this punk to be the shining star that he is, in all his glory. I don't think the filters on this site allow for the doses of 'real talk' this kid and his family need to hear from the outraged public....you know, the friends and loved ones of the woman who DIED because of this kid and his gross negligence.

Compassion. For this "adult"?


Not in this lifetime..

Oh and...

<b>I really pray he goes to jail.</b>


That one was just for you, dude.

Mitchell, There is plenty of hurt to go around, and a fair amount of anger. Between the alleged (I don't know if they are true or not) speeding tickets/behavior and the recent damage at the middle school, I think people of the community are concerned about the apparent lack of justice.

I think that this incident has brought many people to the discussion of bikes and cars sharing the road and, I think, trails. I don’t believe most negative comments on bikers are directed at the couple hit by the car and my comment below, based on facts so far, don’t appear to apply to these bikers at all. The key word in this is sharing. I think there are many bikers who exude a sense of entitlement that everyone else should yield to them. Sharing to them means that if there is not room to pass them giving them all the room they need to feel comfortable you should drive behind them at speeds way below the speed limit for as long as it takes. That doesn't really seem to me to be a courteous way to share.

Too many bikers show little or no courtesy on the road. It seems the more "professional" looking they are the more inconsiderate they are and the less likely to obey traffic laws. In 15 years, I have never seen a biker going south on Foothill, stop at the light at W. Las Positas. Rarely, even during school arrival/dismissal time, do they stop at the lights in front of Foothill and the police that are usually there, do not seem to care. I was driving along Foothill the other day and 2 bikers had 4 cars backed up behind them going 10 mi. per hour as they rode side by side. It would have been easy for them to drop to single file and even put a foot down for 30 seconds before the curves near Muirwood to let the cars pass. Much safer for them and it would breed goodwill. Never happens. However, when there is a clear line of sight and room, of course a drivers should always give biker a wide margin when passing.

On the other side of the bike speed issue, go to the ridge. It is amazing that more people aren't hit by mountain biker who expect people to yield to them as they are going faster than the walkers/runners. I have seen young children grabbed at the last minute by parents as bikers come speeding around blind curves behind them without even signaling with the bells they are, by law, to have. I do not think it would go over well if the walkers stretched across the trail and forced the bikers to ride their brakes and ride at the walker's speed, but essentially, that is what the road bikers expect. The perception is, faster or slower, a biker feels entitled to the right of way and all should yield to them. Doesn't make sense.

I don't care if it is the law bikers can take over the lane for miles as Wanda states. A considerate person whether in a car, on a bike, running or walking yields to the faster person. It is a standard law of common courtesy which appears to be dead.

I have experienced extremely courteous, law abiding bikers, I don't mean to say they aren't out there. They just seem to be in the minority, as are courteous drivers. I think it is a CA epidemic of people just not caring a flip about anyone else. You see the same behavior demonstrated constantly on the interstate with people driving 50 in the passing lanes.

Inconsiderate people, regardless of their mode of transportation, who think they have a right to speed, ignore lights and stop signs, text etc. and break the law; as well as those who hold up long lines of traffic, because they the law says they can, both can contribute to "accidents". A little common courtesy and adherence to our laws by ALL on our roads and trails can keep us safer, contribute to less road rage and simply make our lives better, less stressful and happier. You are not the only person out there whether you are walking, running, biking or driving. We are all out there together. Let’s be considerate and get where we are going safely.

Oh really @uniqua ... you HOPE theyre reading this? And why is that? How do you know the driver even had "gross negligence" to begin with? Ohhhh thats right, you don't because youre just jumping to conclusion without ANY knowledge of what actually occurred because you're down right ignorant. Before you gain any insight on the fatal accident that occurred, don't post malicious moronic observations about a topic you have absolutely no expertise on instead of being a completely asinine individual.

@Mitchell I'm confused. Were you there? The family members of the woman ARE here reading what you are saying. Some have posted. I am guessing that @uniqua is basing her comments on the posting that have been made by witnesses and family members. Attacking someone for attacking someone else makes you no better. It is pretty clear that the driver has made some very bad decisions in the past and made them very public. Each of us is impacted by the impressions people get from the things we post in the public forum via social media. Once posted it can never be retrieved and you will forever be judged by it.Sure you can delete it, but someone will have saved it or shared it. When you come into contact with the law whether due to an accident or because you acted illegally that information you shared will come back to bite you. Making post depicting illegal activity and then whining when you are judged by it is a phenomena that is becoming quite common. Especially with people too young to believe bad things can happen to them and are not real willing to take consequences for those actions. Eventually someone will make you. No Mitchell you are not invincible and neither is your friend. I do understand that the driver's family is hurting and the driver as well. He will live with this his entire life even if the accident was no fault of his. The law will decide if his actions are responsible for the tragedy. If they are, no one can be blamed for wanting him to be held responsible for those actions. A woman is dead.

I respect what Mitchell is doing, standing up for his classmate, however I do agree what kids are posting on the internet these days is insane.

Please stop this vicious attack! THIS WAS AN ACCIDENT! Nothing will bring back the lost life! We all make choices each day. We need to focus on supporting all of those involved! Anger is a step in grieving for all of us... But it doesn't change the outcome. How many of us at 18 made mistakes diring our growing up years. Not knowing either parties, losing a child myself to an "tragedy", what good is blaming or prison do? What can we do to help?.... Is the real question.

After reading all the comments on where bicyclists should and should not ride their bike, I thought it important to share the California DMV rules as they relate to cycling... and hope you find this enlightening:

Bicycle riders on public roads have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists, and are subject to the same rules and regulations. Motorists must look carefully for bicyclists before turning left or right, merging into bicycle lanes, and opening doors next to moving traffic. Respect the right-of-way of bicyclists because they are entitled to share the road with you. A bicycle lane is a designated traffic lane for bicyclists, marked by a solid white line, and typically breaking into a dotted line at the corner. A bicycle lane is different from a simple white line showing the edge of the road because it follows specific width requirements and is clearly marked as a bike lane. Many roads do not have designated bicycle traffic lanes, so bicyclists share the traffic lane to the left of the white line. If there is no shoulder or bicycle lane and the traffic lane is narrow, ride closer to the center of the lane. This will prevent motorists from passing you when there is not enough room. Bicyclists can travel at speeds of 20 mph, or faster. You should also use the traffic lane when you are traveling at the same speed as the traffic around you. This will keep you out of motorists’ blind spots and reduce conflicts with right-turning traffic. Motorists passing bicycles: Be patient when passing a bicyclist. Slow down and pass only when it is safe. Do not squeeze the bicyclist off the road. If road conditions and space permit, allow clearance of at least three feet when passing a bicyclist.

Uniqua and S.R. you have hit the nail right on the head. Thank you for your comments. I'm a family friend of the Hersevoorts and have been for years. The truth will be out soon enough then everyone defending him will be on shut mouth mode. I know the truth and it seems most people are starting to see his past history and other things he has voluntarily put out there about himself. Hopefully more young people take careful notice to how quick life can change for anyone. Yes this was an accident but it could have been prevented by having his license taken away after he should have gotten a reckless drving charge for his 85+ mph ticket or the foothill highschool incident. He's a real cool guy now huh? No more #drinkinhand on #foothilroad.....just freakin ridiculous:(

Oh and by the way to the driver I say you snuffed out the brightest light I've ever known Diana was the sweetest person and now she's gone because you think your a darm race car driver. You took her life and also took her husbands happiness. I hope it was worth it.
Ps. I pray you go to jail

Dearest Mitchell,

Yep. I sincerely hope him, his family and his friends (obviously you're one of them, surprise surprise) have access to these posts and comments being made here.

How do I know your pal is guilty of gross negligence? I don't. Yet. But...I'm sure you've seen his instagram pictures, facebook, etc...he's a great guy, right Mitchie?

THIS is exactly what is wrong with this world. Parents raising sh1thead kids, enabling them with the idea of mommy and daddy fixing things when they mess up, no sense of accountability, an insane amount of delusional invincibility and a CLEAR lack of responsibility. If I was Mitchell's parents, I would be ashamed of myself, ashamed at my failing to instill the MOST important virtues upon my child.

I do know the Hersevoort family, and honestly, it's difficult to see the word "accident" in these comments and news articles. This was no accident. This is a clear case of a young punk with no regard to the rules and regulations the Department of Motor Vehicles has set forth.

I pray he goes to jail.

They should have taken his license away a few tickets ago..

It is now almost 3 days from the time of the incident. By now accident reconstruction s/b complete. Obviously the police should have BA information. All witness statements should have been taken. Hopefully phone records are in hand. This should be in the hands of DA. If there is cause to hold this 18 yo adult male I hope they (PPD) are not waiting until after graduation/grad night ceremonies to arrest him. He is 18, an adult, and whether he is still in high school because his parents had him start kindergarten late or that is just how is birthday fell, he should not be given special treatment. Many seniors think that if they're 18 yet still in high school the adult rules don't apply to them. Just because he has a special day coming up doesn't mean he should get special treatment. That is a consequence of the action. You lose out. Many people get arrested before weddings, funerals, graduations, etc. They don't get special treatment. And if his comments and postings are any indication of his attitude, he doesn't deserve to go through graduation ceremonies. Diana will never be able to attend another special event.

Also, it doesn't matter whether he has deleted the comments and photos or not from all his social media sites or phone. They can all be pulled up.

I am a bicycle-only rider due to a seizure disorder. It breaks my hear to read this story, particularly given that Ms. Hersevoort was responsibly (1) wearing a helmet, and (2) riding tandem in line with her husband. Blessings to Ms. Hersevoort, her loved ones and family, and her friends. Mary Fouts/Pleasant Hill

Web Link

Coming from Sunol foothill looks like the only road for bicycles. Pleasanton Sunol Road, and the highway 680, are available for cars and are very fast roads. Therefore it is reasonable to lower the speed limit to 25 on Foothill between Sunol and Castlewood so that bicycles can ride safely. Where the rider was killed appears to be on Foothill between Castlewood and Golden Eagle way. It's only about a mile long stretch, and it also has no shoulders. Although it is a necessary access road for cars, it is also absolutely necessary for bicycles. Therefore the speed limit should be 25. After Golden eagle, there are unrealistically narrow shoulders. If these were widened and the car lane narrowed, a speed limit of 35 would be acceptable.

REPOST****
Pleasanton CA resident June 11, 2013 at 08:54 amYour son may know the driver on a personal basis and know of this young man's demeanor when it comes to driving and all, but on THIS day of the accident, your son was not there. I was there and was one of the first on the scene. The driver that this young man cut off on the road was THERE. His statement was that that the young man was driving at FAST speed and cut him off on FOOTHILL and hit the bikers who were obeying the laws of the road. (who in their right mind would speed and THEN cut off another car on a SUNDAY, knowing full well there are ALOT of bikers on this road). I know this much and won't give my two sense on whether he was texting, not paying attention, etc..... And YES, some of us DO have a lot on our hands, lives, but find this to be an important matter in our community. I live down the street, and now the memory of this horrible tragedy will live forever in my mind and heart....... I don't wish on anyone to witness the heartache I witnessed on this horrible day.... My heart aches for the family and I pray for her soul every night....... 

To the Parents and Adults of Pleasonton,
When reading through the comments I expected to find people writing words of sympathy towards the family or asking questions about the investigation, trying to find more out more details but what I read sickened me. I expected more maturity from the adults and parents of Pleasanton but apparently that was too big of an expectation.
It amazes me how many parents are writing hurtful and mean comments not only towards the driver but his parents. I know I am young but one important thing that I have learned and think is important to pass on is there is no such thing as a perfect parent and there is no such thing as a perfect child. Whether you want to believe it or not, you kids are off doing something that you don't or wouldn't approve of. The fact is that none of your kids are perfect and most of them if not all of them are NOT perfect drivers. You don't know what your kids are doing at all times on the road or anywhere else.
In fact, YOU and YOUR KID probably already have or will in their lifetime: drive over the speed limit, haven't worn a seat belt, cut someone off, tailgate, speed up to run a yellow light, send a text, read a text, talk on the phone, or drive on the wrong side of the rode to pass up a slow driver. All of these simple actions can and have caused accidents resulting in injury or death. We are all guilty of at least one of these actions and just one bad decision is all it takes to ruin a day or a life. We don't get into the car with the intent of taking a life but yet we have all made that risk because we were impatient or just being down right thoughtless. The only difference is this young man didn't get away with it and hes is suffering the consequences.
I am not trying to say what the young man did was right but what you are doing is WRONG. You are not responsible for teaching him a lesson, you are not responsible for telling someone how to parent, and you are not responsible for punishing him, the law will take care of that. Writing hideous remarks towards the boy and his family is not helping anyone on either side. It is not helping the driver and his family. It is NOT going to help the situation, it is NOT going to bring the life back, it is NOT going to help the family grieve or feel better. Only your words of sympathy can do that. So next time you are tailgating, or speeding, or texting, or not looking both ways or when your kid brings home a ticket or gets caught doing something risky, think about your remarks toward the kid who suffered from making the same stupid decision.
Now that that has been said, I would also like to give my sincerest condolences to the family, I am so sorry for your loss and hope that you can find some peace and closure.

This tragic accident troubles me greatly. My condolences to all affected directly by this terrible situation.

As a bike commuter I would like to encourage both cyclists and drivers to be considerate and follow the traffic rules. Failure to do this at a minimum serves to irritate drivers or cyclists depending which side of the vehicle you're on. Worst case, it can lead to situations like this.

I don't think the solution is to ban cyclists from this or other 'dangerous' roads.

Can't we do something to make this and other tight routes safer for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians? Bike lanes can do wonders. Each commuting cyclist is one less car on the road. I would think this should compensate for the seconds a considerate cyclist might delay a car. However if he or she is in a bike lane, then not only is he or she not adding to traffic, he/she is also not slowing down the flow of traffic. Win win.

If we can't afford to add bike lanes, then why not install speed tables on rural routes where speeding is both common and particularly dangerous?

Though I make the argument for cyclists that commute, the benefits certainly also apply to recreational and sport cycling.

I witnessed the moments just before this incident. The driver was moving at an INSANE SPEED, and I saw him swerve around to try and pass the vehicle in front of him.

There is no doubt that his gross negligence behind the wheel caused Diana's death. I've provided a statement to police and hope to hear that charges are brought soon.

@Dub Anon. Thank you for your statement. I think it will help the anti-cyclists realize that this was not a typical car/bike accident, where each party is maneuvering for a piece/control of the roadway. The Hersevoort's were in a bike lane, single-file, in a very wide, open part of foothill road. Extreme gross negligence on the driver's part caused this heart wrenching incident.

@nicole behiel


I'm sorry you feel that way. I have zero sympathy for a young, inconsiderate, reckless driver that by all accounts thus far caused an "accident" that has resulted in a precious life lost.

You seem wise enough to grasp the fact that some of us posting here have access to incriminating evidence that supports the glaringly obvious fact that this kid was a negligent driver in his daily life. I won't post a screenshot but...

on 3-14-13 at 8:10am he wrote "Already going 140 on I5 I can't control myself" with a smirking emoticon.

Not to mention *again* his boastful picture where he successfully beat an 85+mph ticket for speeding ON FOOTHILL not too long ago?


I say hail yes it's his fault. Hail yes it reflects poorly on his parents. Hail yes it is their responsibility AND duty to hold him accountable, or better yet...NOT enable his risky behavior allowing him to continue being a maniac with no regard behind the wheel.

I couldn't care less about what he, his parents, his family or his friends are going through or reading here.

At least they are alive. Diana's life was taken from her, her husband, her children, her grandchildren and the countless lives she touched. I hope the judge throws an entire set of encyclopedias at him.

Another site is showing posts from the drivers' social media sites. It is scary to see someone post that they are driving 140 mph on I5.


think about the speed limit on I5, 70 mph. Now image driving DOUBLE that speed (140 mph) and having one hand free to take a picture of your speedometer with your phone....then tell me how much sympathy the driver deserves.