Traffic safety officials in the Sunshine State want drivers to be mindful of others when they get behind the wheel, especially looking out for “vulnerable road users.”
Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles recently rolled out its annual “Share the Road” campaign. It joined with law enforcement and other groups to call on drivers to take their responsibilities seriously.
“As a motorist, it is important to educate yourself and your loved ones about the significance of following traffic laws, being courteous to others, and staying attentive to your surroundings,” said Dave Kerner, executive director of FHSMV. “Exercise caution around all types of vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, and vulnerable road users. Safe driving is not just a goal, it is a way of life.”
Vulnerable road users include pedestrians, emergency service providers and utility workers on highways, as well as bicycle, motorcycle and scooter riders, among others.
Nearly three-quarters (74%) of deaths in hit-and-run accidents across the state each year are vulnerable road users, according to FHSMV. That is despite accounting for just over 6% of total hit-and-run collisions.
It is crucial that drivers understand traffic laws and remain alert at all times. Drivers should proceed with extra caution around vulnerable road users, giving them extra space.
Pedestrians are particularly at risk when it comes to traffic accidents. Nearly 800 pedestrians are killed and more than 1,200 injured in crashes across the state each year. The overwhelming majority (85%) of those accidents come in the evening and early morning hours, when visibility is low.
Risks are also elevated for motorcycle and bicycle riders. Like pedestrians, these people have very little physical protection from oncoming vehicles.
Motorcyclists are involved in nearly 10,000 crashes statewide every year. They result in more than 600 deaths and 2,100 serious injuries, annually. Bicyclists are involved in more than 7,100 crashes per year, with 200-plus deaths and over 800 serious injuries.
“Pay attention and allow everyone to get to their destination safely,” said Michele Harris, Florida Public Affairs Director, AAA-The Auto Club Group. “Take the time to give all types of road users the room they need.”
Injured in an Accident? Know Your Rights
Anyone who is injured in a car, golf cart, motorcycle or other traffic accident in Florida has the right to seek compensation from those responsible for the crash.
When a person is killed in an accident in Florida, his or her loved ones have the right to seek compensation from those responsible for the crash.
That includes compensation for financial losses associated with the accident, as well as for loss of support, love and companionship and for pain and suffering in some cases.
No amount of money can ever allow you to go back in time and stop an accident from happening. Compensation can, however, help ease some of the financial strain that often comes with losing a loved one.
Speak with a Villages Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in an aggressive driving or other crash in Florida, Villages accident lawyer Tim Babiarz can help.
Our firm is pleased to represent clients in the Villages and throughout the area, including in Ocala, Leesburg, Lady Lake, Wildwood, Summerfield, and beyond. Call (352) 205-7559 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with a Villages accident lawyer.
