Once again our South Florida personal injury attorneys ask Florida motorists to stay alert to pedestrians and bicyclists. Last week, a hit-and-run driver killed a man from Naples as he rode his bicycle through a neighborhood around 11:30 a.m.
Each year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 50,000 bicyclists are injured in vehicle accidents, and over 600 bikers will die. In Florida, in 2010, 76 bicyclists died and 4,600 were injured in motor vehicle accidents.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles is aware of the dangers bikers and walkers face, and in an effort to make the road safer for everyone, it has kicked off a public awareness campaign. The Share the Road campaign is offered to remind motorists to use courtesy when driving and to watch out for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists.
The Share the Road campaign offers the following safe driving tips for Florida drivers every time they take to the highway.
- Cut out cutting in front of other drivers
- Check your blind spot and avoid the ‘no-zone’
- Chill out
- Give large trucks room to maneuver at traffic lights
- Think before you drink
For bicyclists, the FLHSMV suggests the following:
- Wear a helmet
- Remain vigilant
- Inspect your brakes
- Go with the flow of traffic
- Steer clear of the ‘no-zone’
An additional item to note is that Florida is one of 20 states that require motorists to give bicyclists a three-foot berth when passing. Unless you can give a biker this much space on the highway, do not attempt to pass. Wait for approaching traffic to pass then move into the other lane when safe. Also, be alert for road obstacles that could cause a biker to swerve.
Our Treasure Coast car accident attorneys encourage anyone that uses Florida highways to stay alert and to follow the rules of the road. Accidents are most common at congested intersections. All bikers and pedestrians should take an extra look before crossing the road to avoid stepping in front of traffic. Let’s all share the road.
About Philip DeBerard, Injury Attorney
The law firm of Philip DeBerard, Injury Attorney, has provided professional and compassionate legal assistance to personal injury and accident victims in South Florida and the Treasure Coast since 1975. The firm’s practice areas include car accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, product liability, dog bite injuries, slip and fall injuries, swimming pool accidents, medical malpractice, and wrongful death claims.
Our law firm represents victims of car accidents across South Florida, including Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Jupiter, Stuart, Okeechobee, Vero Beach, Palm Beach and throughout South Florida and the Treasure Coast. Call 1-800-299-8878 now to speak with a knowledgeable Florida car accident attorney or fill out our online contact form.
