Cyclist airlifted to hospital after falling on Highway 1 west of Calgary

A man was airlifted to hospital after an incident on Highway 1 near Dead Man’s Flats on Thursday afternoon, according to EMS.

Paramedics from Nakoda, Banff and Kananaskis were all called to the scene along the highway, about 15 kilometres east of Dead Man’s Flats, at about 11:38 a.m.

EMS said a man who appeared to have been riding a bicycle was taken to hospital in critical condition.

Alberta RCMP said the cyclist, a 74-year-old man from Canmore, lost control and fell, hitting his head on the road. The man suffered serious, life-threatening injuries as a result of the fall.

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RCMP said a number of people saw the man fall, and several also stopped to help him while paramedics were on their way.

Investigators said it appears the cyclist wasn’t wearing a helmet at the time he fell. Officers also noted highway conditions were bare and dry at the time, though it was very windy. A loaded trailer was also attached to the bicycle at the time of the crash.

The incident prompted the closure of the eastbound Exit 105 near Lac des Arcs, according to 511 Alberta. Drivers were told to expect delays.