The young cyclist whose spine was injured in a hit-and-run accident on the R301 last Wednesday (29 March), says he is doing well and on the hunt for the reckless motorcyclist still roaming free.
Khanyiso Plaatjies (24) told Paarl Post he was released from hospital and is patiently riding out his recovery with a neck brace at home which, according to his doctor, should last at least six weeks.
Last Thursday, the Cape Winelands Cycling group initially launched the manhunt in solidarity with the training cyclist, who could have easily been killed the day before.
The incident was reported around 14:00 near the Drakenstein Correctional Centre on the thoroughfare en route to Paarl from Franschhoek. It is alleged the motorcyclist fled the scene before authorities had a chance to interview all those involved in the accident.
Plaatjies explained he was ramping uphill on the road’s yellow line when he noticed the motorcyclist behind him who apparently lost control of his motorbike.
“He bumped me on my lower back, swerved and pushed me off the road. Following the impact I must have rolled three times before coming to a standstill.
“Well, he obviously managed to regain control of his bike and sped away from the scene.”
Luckily, Plaatjies added, two women travelling not far behind witnessed the entire accident individually and came to his rescue.
“The woman driving behind me continued driving when she saw that the biker was fleeing the scene and followed him. She managed to track him down and get a picture of the man’s motorbike and licence plate.
“A second woman, who happened to be a private paramedic, also stopped to assist. She helped me keep my spine in a neutral position until the paramedics, whom she had called, could reach the scene.”
Plaatjies was happy to share that “I’m fine! My spine is sore and stiff in the mornings when I get out of bed, or after sitting too long. But soon enough I’m warmed up and able to move.”
He said he was busy training for the Western Cape Championships road race when so traumatically interrupted.
“The championship track and competition dates still have to be determined, so I’m not sure whether I’ll be able to train and regain my strength before the championship’s kick-off.”
To top it off his bicycle, worth between R60 000 and R70 000, was seriously damaged and is sadly not insured.
“Whether I get a new bicycle or have this one fixed, the costs will be roughly the same,” he pointed out. “So I may as well look to getting a new one.”
Plaatjies hopes he will be able to compete, but fully intends to heed his doctor’s advice to rest and fully recover before mounting his saddle again.
He is studying Data Science and is currently self-employed by repairing cell phones, computers and other devices.
According to the spokesperson for Paarl police, Captain Louise du Plessis, a case of reckless and negligent driving is being investigated.
“The suspect is urged to hand himself over to Paarl police for questioning while the matter is being reviewed by the court prosecutor,” Du Plessis said.
Anybody with more information about the accident is asked to report it to Paarl police by calling 021 807 4000.
