Cyclist in Australia survives being dragged 200m behind truck after rope gets caught in spokes

An Australian cyclist has undergone surgery after being dragged for 200m when a rope or cable dangling from a council truck became entangled in his bike’s spokes.  

Rod Little was cycling on the Scenic Highway at Terrigal in New South Wales when the incident took place.

Witness Nick Markovina said: “A cable with a shackle on it collected him and dragged him along by his ankles. You wouldn't read about it and you wouldn't imagine it.”

The driver was unaware of what was happening and as Little was clipped into his pedals, he couldn’t free himself.

Witnesses alerted the truck driver and managed to get him to pull over. CCTV footage of what took place can be seen at 9NEWS.

Little was reportedly sitting up and talking just minutes afterwards, but according to emergency services he had sustained a “fairly heavy head knock” and multiple injuries to his chest and upper and lower limbs.

He was flown to John Hunter Hospital where he underwent surgery.

His wife, Nicolette Gregory, said: “I couldn’t believe how far he was dragged along the road. An awful lot of skin missing. Pretty bad actually. He’s got a lot of work to be done on him.”

Central Coast Council said the incident was an accident and that the driver involved is receiving support. However, police are investigating whether the vehicle’s load had been properly tied down.