Highway cyclist hit by car, airlifted to hospital

– Alison Noonan
A LYNBROOK man was airlifted to hospital after his bike and a car collided on the South Gippsland Highway on Monday night.
The 33-year-old cyclist was riding south at about 7pm when the collision took place near the Hallam Road exit in Lynbrook.
Police believe the man was struck after a car behind failed to see him in the inside lane.
The man was taken to The Alfred hospital in a serious but stable condition.
Cranbourne Police Sergeant Gavin Buchan said the incident was a timely warning to motorists to be aware of cyclists on the road.
“Drivers need to take due care and attention of cyclists,” he said.
Acting Inspector Alan Dew encouraged cyclists to ride safely and within their own limitations.
He said many people would be getting a bike for the first time at Christmas and lack experience on the road.
“Riding a bike safely is a learned behaviour, just as driving safely is. Learning techniques for riding in traffic and practising bike handling skills dramatically improves safety,” he said.