SLO cyclist killed in Highway 227 collision identified | San Luis Obispo Tribune

A 58-year-old San Luis Obispo woman riding her bicycle north on Highway 227 was killed Thursday evening when a car hit her from behind, according to the CHP.

Bridget Dawson was struck around 6:45 p.m., while riding south of Biddle Ranch Road. Lisa Smith, 53, of Oceano, who was driving a 2012 Chrysler, drifted onto the road’s right shoulder, hitting Dawson and causing her to be ejected from her bike.

Dawson landed in a ditch on the east side of the road and sustained multiple fractures and bruises. She was pronounced dead around 7:35 p.m. at Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center, according to a CHP news release.

Sgt. Robyn Lescher said the collision is being investigated to determine whether Smith will be charged or found responsible. Lescher said authorities released Smith at the scene Thursday night.

The use of alcohol or drugs is not suspected to be a contributing factor in the accident, the CHP said, adding that it was unknown what caused the the car to drift onto the right shoulder.