HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – Police are looking for help from the public as they search for a hit-and-run driver. A bicyclist was struck in south Huntsville early Tuesday morning and the driver left the scene.

Fortunately the man’s injuries are not life-threatening.  As a matter of fact, he called police himself.

“It was still dark outside, just after five in the morning and cyclist was hit by some type of a vehicle,” said Sergeant Clay Warmbrod of Huntsville Police.

The south side of Bailey Cove Road was shut down for 30 minutes while first responders were on the scene. The driver who hit the cyclist left the scene, and police have no vehicle description.

“We need information.  It’s a felony, so it will be investigated aggressively,” said Sgt. Warmbrod.

Investigators say the victim has a fractured vertebrae and took all the necessary precautions to remain safe on his bike.

“My understanding is he had six lights on him, he was wearing a yellow reflective vest, highly visible,” said Sgt. Warmbrod.

“For vehicles, it is harder for a vehicle to see a bicyclist, especially at night,” said Daphne Treece, a Huntsville police officer who also is on the Huntsville PD Bike Squad.

The extra danger is why police urge cyclists and pedestrians to help keep themselves safe during dark hours.

“Wear reflective clothing at night so you are easier to see,” advises Treece.

“That vehicle can become a weapon,” said Warmbrod, “even if its unintentional on the part of the driver, because it’s metal and you’re not.”

Once again, this is a felony — anyone with any information is urged to call Huntsville Police at (256) 722-7100.