Bicycle Crash Accidents in Florida and What You Can Do to Help Prepare Yourself and Those You Love Before You Hit the Road
Bicycles are a routine part of life for many Americans. After all, they are a great way to stay in shape while protecting the environment. Many people ride bicycles as a leisure activity as well as to the office on a daily basis. The popularity of bicycles also coincides with the fact that they can lead to accidents. These accidents can be as simple as a scraped knee or can even result in a fatality.
According to Local 10 News, a 15-year-old Pembroke Pines girl was riding her bicycle to meet a friend at a nearby Starbucks when she was fatally struck by a car. A witness reported that the girl was not wearing a helmet and was off the bike trail when the accident occurred. The teenager had recently celebrated her quinceanera and was taking advantage of having a day off from school for Veterans’ Day when tragedy struck.
Unfortunately, Floridians lead the way in bicycle crash fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic & Safety Administration, over four percent of Florida’s total traffic fatalities involve bicyclists. This is higher than any other state.
Why is the Risk So High for Bicyclists in Florida?
There is no clear explanation but there are several possible factors. The weather in most of the state remains nice throughout the year which likely attracts more bicyclists. Florida is also a magnet for drivers who are in the state temporarily as tourists as well as aging snowbirds who arrive every winter to escape the cold back home. In other words, the state attracts people who are less likely to be familiar with their surroundings. All of these factors likely contribute to the elevated risk of an accident for bicyclists in Florida.
How Can Bicyclists Prepare Before Leaving?
- Map out a route in advance
- Obtain a helmet that fits properly
- Ensure that your bicycle is the right size for you
- Wear bright colors and reflective gear, especially at night
- Fully charge your cell phone so that you have it if an emergency arises
How Can Bicyclists Stay Safe on the Road?
- Stay in the designated bicycle lane
- Abide by traffic signals as if you were driving a car
- Never drink or do drugs before riding your bicycle
- Refrain from texting until you reach your destination
- If wearing headphones, ensure you can still hear what is happening around you
- Use hand signals and call out before changing lanes or turning
- Travel in the same direction as the traffic on your side of the road
Have You Been Injured in a Bicycle Accident? Let Us Help You Today.
Unfortunately, bicycle accidents happen. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident due to the fault of someone else, we can help. The Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm are experienced in helping people like you recover the compensation that you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Orlando, Miami, Fort Myers, Tampa, Jacksonville, Daytona and Bradenton areas.
Resources:
local10.com/news/florida/broward/15-year-old-girl-on-bike-fatally-struck-by-car-in-pembroke-pines
crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/812507