The Florida Pedestrian and Bicycle Strategic Safety Plan, prepared by The Center for Urban Transportation Research at the University of Southern Florida, provides that the 2011 Florida pedestrian fatality rates were nearly double the national average and bicycle fatality rates were nearly triple the national average. Based on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Traffic Safety Facts reports, Florida had the highest pedestrian fatality rate among all states in 2011, 2.60 pedestrian fatalities per 100,000 persons. While the Florida pedestrian fatality rate declined slightly in 2011 compared to 2010, the bicycle fatality rate increased from 0.40 fatalities per 100,000 persons to 0.63. Further, Florida represented six percent of the U.S. population in 2011 but accounted for 11 percent of all U.S. pedestrian fatalities and 17.4 percent of all U.S. bicycle fatalities. Contact our New Port Richey Bicycle Accident Lawyers to learn more.
Injuries Caused by New Port Richey Bicycle Accidents
The type of injury sustained by a bicyclist in a vehicle accident can range from cuts and bruises to fatality. Common injuries incurred in a New Port Richey bicycle accident include:
- Neck and back injuries
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Facial and teeth injuries
New Port Richey Bicyclists Must Take Precautions
Even in a minor collision, the bicyclist is in danger and susceptible to serious harm and injury. For those who are driving, it is important to know and understand the laws that protect bicyclists:
- Right to a lane: In all fifty states, a bicycle has the right to a full lane on the road and a motor vehicle is not allowed to prevent a bicyclist a full lane.
- Sidewalk driving can be dangerous: Statistically, cycling on the sidewalk is the most dangerous as it involves crossing driveways. If you are a motor vehicle driver it is important to always double check for bicycles and pedestrians when leaving out a driveway.
- Traffic signs: Bicyclists must observe traffic signs and signals like a motor vehicle.
- Florida law: In the state of Florida, Title XXIII, chapter 316 discusses bicycle law and specifically refers to the requirement that bicycle drivers and passengers under 16 be required to wear a helmet.
New Port Richey Bicycle Accident Attorneys
The Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center provides that the approximate amount of bicycle/motor vehicle accidents totals 48,000 annually. These statistics remind us that both the pedestrian/bicyclist as well as the motor vehicle operator must take precautions. If you were involved in a bicycle accident, it is important to speak to a New Port Richey personal injury attorney. Please call our New Port Richey office today at 727-853-6275.
Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA - New Port Richey Office
5924 Main St
New Port Richey, FL 34652
(727) 477-9660
References:
[2] https://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.2065.html
[3] Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Facts