A young woman was hospitalised after being knocked down by a cyclist on a footpath outside a Letterkenny business.
The incident has led to the owner of the business demanding signage be erected in the area warning cyclists and e-scooter users not to ride on the footpath.
Catriona O’Donnell, the owner of the well-known Catriona’s Hair Salon at Lower Main Street, issued the plea through social media last night.
Ms O’Donnell was speaking after the worrying incident on Saturday afternoon.
The woman, who had attended Catriona’s salon, was due to fly to the UK that afternoon but ended up at Letterkenny University Hospital instead.
Catriona revealed “On exiting our premises on Lower Main Street and saying her goodbye we heard a loud bang and saw our beautiful friend lying on the ground (after being hit) by an oncoming cyclist that had chose to use the footpath instead of the road.
“In respect to the cyclist, I can understand how dangerous our roads have become but from seeing already a few close calls, we do believe that the footpath is certainly not a safe environment for any bikes or scooters unless being cycled by toddlers.
“In this unfortunate situation, it was a horrendous sight to have come across and witness.
“For both parties it was a nightmare but our friend on leaving us on what was a lovely morning spent ended up being hospitalised and unable to make her scheduled flight.”
Catriona has now issued a plea to local county councillors to push to have signs erected in the town warning cyclists and e-scooter users not to use footpaths.
“In this particular situation Our friend did not stand a chance on exiting to the pavement,” she added.
The popular businesswoman wished their client a speedy recovery and also thanked the Gardai, ambulance personnel and local people who attended the scene.
She added “Once again, if we could all appeal for our footpaths to be cycle-free and a safer place to use for young and old.
“To our county councillors – could you please promote for signage and a clampdown with immediate effect.”
