Family of Cyclist Who Died Sues Company They Believe Is Responsible

(SAN FRANCISCO) -- A San Francisco family is suing a cycling website over the death of their son, saying that the website encourages its riders to speed, potentially causing death.

William Flint secured a “title” online that regulates online amateur cycling races. The 41-year-old engineer died while reportedly trying to reclaim his title after he discovered someone online had surpassed his record, reports ABC7 News.

Flint was apparently going over the 30-mph speed limit. Flint’s lawyer, Susan Kang, says, “His family basically wants justice for him.” Kang also says about the website, Strava.com, "They assume no responsibility. They don't put cones out. They don't have anybody monitor and see whether a course, or a specific segment, is dangerous.”

ABC7 News legal analyst Dean Johnson calls the lawsuit a stretch. He says, "If the theory is that Strava could have and should have seen the dangers on these courses, then the cyclists who were actually there certainly could have and should have seen the same risks."

Strava spokesman Mark Reidy sends his condolences to the family, but says there is “no merit to the lawsuit.”

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