Islip Councilman Edwards grazed by car

Islip Councilman John Edwards was grazed by a car Sunday while biking in Syosset and was absent from Tuesday's Town Board meeting as he rested at home.

"A car clipped me from behind and sent me flying," Edwards said Tuesday.

Edwards, who trains regularly for triathlons and has led several environmentally conscious town efforts, was cycling with friends and was brought to Southside Hospital in Bay Shore.

He was admitted to the hospital Sunday with a lacerated liver and several scratches and bruises, and was released Monday.

Edwards, who was wearing a helmet Sunday, said he looks forward to returning to work.

"I train and ride all the time," he said. "It could have been a lot worse. I'm pretty lucky I didn't get injured further."

Edwards said the driver of the car stopped after the accident and left after realizing Edwards was not seriously injured.

No police report was filed.

"I'm still hoping I can do a couple of races I've signed up for in August," Edwards said.

He said he hopes the accident will be a lesson to drivers. He said: "If you're driving a car, please be careful. We have to share the road."