Damian’s Story: the Tragedy that Started SAFE

SAFE was started by cyclist Damian Kevitt as a movement for safer streets after he was hit by a car, dragged 1/4 mile down Interstate 5, and nearly killed while riding his bicycle in Griffith Park in 2013. While still in the hospital, Damian made two decisions: (1) no matter how long it took, he would finish the ride he started that day; and (2) he would use his story to fight for safer streets for all road users throughout California. Finish the Ride and Finish the Run were SAFE’s first events, and they continue today as a space where community members can come together for change.

Today, what started as a single, life-changing event has become a community of activists, advocates, and volunteers united in a movement that proudly declares that “Streets Are For Everyone” and fights each day to realize Damian’s vision while lying in that hospital bed.