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Bike-Sharing Programs Expected to Double Again by 2014
There are close to 20,000 shared biked in the U.S. as of August 2013. With these numbers, we’re seeing more than double the increase in the number of bike share programs and fleets since last year. Now, the U.S. is home to more than 30 modern bike-sharing programs that allow riders to easily make short trips on two wheels without having to own a bicycle, according to Tree Hugger.
Here in Fort Lauderdale, as you may know, we’ve got Broward B-cycle. This program is designed to encourage you to use a B-cycle for all your short trips. Once you’ve paid your modest membership fee, you can take an unlimited number of rides.
Our Fort Lauderdale bicycle accident lawyers know this is a great system that provides convenient and inexpensive transportation for residents and visitors. Unfortunately, this also comes with a lot of risks for accidents. Bicyclists face some serious risks for injuries — and even death — when involved in a motor-vehicle accident. With more bikes on the road, the risks for these types of accidents are even higher. more And it’s only getting bigger. There are a number of new programs and expansions already in the works for the upcoming months. Officials believe that the number of bikes in bike-sharing programs is going to double once again by the end of 2014.
Within the next year, officials believe that the bike-sharing programs in the U.S. will have caught up to Paris. New programs in Florida are expected to push us to that level. Currently, Miami, St. Petersburg and Tampa are expecting launches.
How the Broward B-cycle Program Works:
-Purchase a membership online or at any B-station.
-Chose a bike from any B-station.
-Grab your bike and go where you need.
-Return your bike at any B-station.
But bikes don’t always bring good news. From 2010 to 2011, the number of bicycling fatalities in Broward County increased significantly. During this time, there were 10 bicyclist fatalities in Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Hollywood and Davie. In light of all the daily dangers bicyclists face on both local streets and busy roadways, it’s important to review a list of bicycle safety guidelines:
-Make sure that your bicycle is properly maintained.
-Never carry or wear distracting devices.
-Make sure you check out the weather forecast before each and every ride.
-Make sure you’ve always got a helmet on. Although, in the state of Florida, only riders under the age of 16 are required by law to wear a helmet, it’s important to remember that a helmet is your best defense against serious injury or death in the event of an accident.
-Map out where you’re going before you head out.
-If you’ve got things to carry, make sure you bring a backpack and use it.
-Keep your eyes open for other vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians. You’ve got to practice defensive driving habits, even when riding a bicycle.
If you or someone you love has been injured, contact Richard Ansara at 954 761-3641 or toll-free at 877-277-3780 for a free initial consultation to discuss your case. More Blog Entries: Pedestrian and Bicyclist Hit by Nighttime Driver, Broward Injury Lawyer Blog, August 13, 2013 South Florida Pedestrian E.R. Visits on the Rise, Broward Injury Lawyer Blog, July 24, 2013
