Natchez Trace Parkway – Bicyclist Struck by Motor Vehicle in Hit and Run

Date: July 26, 2016
Contact: Sarah Davis, Chief Ranger, 662-680-4014

MADISON CO, MS–On Monday, July 25, 2016, at 8:53 a.m., emergency responders were dispatched to a collision involving a motor vehicle and a bicyclist on the Parkway just north of the Boyd Site (milepost 107). Amy Biernat (44), of Brandon, MS, was riding her bicycle north on the Parkway when she was struck by a white Nissan sedan. Because of the impact, Biernat suffered several injuries and was transported to Baptist Hospital. The Nissan did not stop and was later found abandoned approximately 1.5 miles north along the Parkway. National Park Service Rangers and the Ridgeland Police Department are investigating the incident.

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a National Scenic Byway, which encourages multiple uses and recreational activities including scenic motoring, bicycling, hiking, running, and other activities.

Rangers enforce the 3-foot passing regulation, which requires motorists to give a minimum of three-foot clearance to bicyclists when passing, and warn against distracted driving.Rangers encourage bicyclists to wear high visibility clothing, helmets, and use flashing lights and/or reflectors on their bicycles to increase their visibility to motorists.

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