Florida Injury Lawyer Blog
Florida’s 119 fatal bicycle accidents led the nation in 2007, according to statistics released this week by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration.
Only one other state, California with 109, had more than 100 people killed on bicycles last year.
The attorneys at Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner, Personal Injury Lawyers, are dedicated to fighting for the rights of people injured or killed in Southwest Florida while promoting safety and the rights of everyone on our roadways.
At Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner, Personal Injury Lawyers, our message to riders is simple:”Whatever you ride, ride safe!”
NHTSA issued the following safety reminders:
– All bicyclists should wear properly fitted bicycle helmets. Helmets are the single most effective way to prevent head injuries resulting from bicycle crashes.
– Bicyclists are considered vehicle operators and are required to obey the same rules of the road as other operators. When cycling in the street, bicyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic.
– Drivers of motor vehicles need to share the road with bicyclists. Be courteous. Allow at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist. Look for cyclists before opening a car door or pulling out of a parking space. Yield to cyclists at intersections.
– Bicyclists should increase their visibility by wearing bright or florescent clothing, even during the day. To be noticed at night, use front and rear reflectors and lights and use reflective tape or markings on clothing and equipment.
The government report shows only one-seventh of bicycle deaths involved kids ages 5 to 15. Average age of death increased from 31 in 1997 to 40 in 2007.
If you or someone you love has been seriously injured or killed in a motorcycle, bicycle or pedestrian accident, there are certain steps you can take to help protect your rights.
Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner, Personal Injury Lawyers, offers free appointments to discuss your case through any of its offices in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, Sebring, Venice, Arcadia and Port Charlotte.
