Friends said avid cyclist Bruce Rosar will be remembered as a passionate guy dedicated to keeping everyone safe.

Todd Spain said Rosar, 56, was talking to fellow cyclist about putting safety first the very morning of the tragic accident.

"Bruce was very active on that ride talking to every person about how to stay safe," Spain said.

Rosar broke away from the group he was riding with on Saturday when police say he turned in front of the car that struck him. Spain said Rosar's death has just fueled his cause.

"I've initiated and been involved with email threads about how we can get cyclists and motorists to be more aware of the issues and challenges," Spain said.

Spain said the efforts have started at the scene of the accident on South Salem Street and Apex Peakway, where a white bike and flowers stand.

The "ghost bike" is not only to remember Rosar, but to make people aware of the consequences of careless driving and cycling. Cyclist Dwayne Allen said he has other ideas on how to get the word out.

"We need to educate the cyclists that don't have that much experience," Allen said.

Apex Police Chief Jack Lewis said the department has been on board for months, talking to motorists and cyclists about how to stay safe.

"We're going to continue to do all we can do to educate and increase awareness," Lewis said.

Spain and police agree, no matter whose at fault, they say this accident should be a wake-up call to everyone on the road.

"People have to understand that cyclists are a group of individuals that have their own set of challenges on the road.," Spain said.

Spain hopes to get more cyclists involved with the cause and take action immediately in honor of Rosar's dedication.

The incident is still under investigation and a report has not been released at this time.

The Apex Police Department encourages anyone who witnessed the accident or has any information to contact authorities immediately.