Dec. 16, 2019 (PORTLAND, Maine) – Dana Banister, 58, was struck by Eugene Whipple, 45, who was operating a vehicle at the intersection of Western Avenue and Sewall Street in Augusta in the evening on Friday, December 13.
Deputy Chief Kevin D. Lully of the Augusta Police Department says, “There are no charges at this time but the investigation is still open.”
“We are troubled to see the number of pedestrian fatalities reach 13 this year in Maine. We are committed to seeing that number drop in the upcoming year and will continue to track the details of these crashes,” says Jim Tassé, Assistant Director of the Bicycle Coalition of Maine.
Tassé says the Coalition will continue its outreach and education efforts to ensure vulnerable users are aware of best practices when using the roads. However, the Coalition emphasizes the importance of motorists being alert and aware during the darkest days of the year, as well as the need to always obey speed limits, and never drive distracted or under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
Please note, pedestrians and other vulnerable users can be present on Maine’s roadways in all conditions and times of the day. Pedestrians and cyclists should use extra care to be visible, especially when walking or biking after dark, and to follow best practices and the law for roadway safety.
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The Bicycle Coalition of Maine is the statewide voice of cyclists and pedestrians. Since 1992, the Bicycle Coalition of Maine has led the effort to make Maine better for bicycling and walking by protecting the rights and safety of cyclists and pedestrians through education, advocacy, legislation, and encouragement. We support biking and walking for health, transportation, and recreation. For more information, visit bikemaine.org.