Broward Injury Lawyer Blog
Fort Lauderdale is one of the nation’s hottest Labor Day 2013 travel destinations, according to the Huffington Post. With that being said, we can expect our beaches to be packed through the weekend. While this travel trend is great for local businesses, it’s not such great news for safety on our roadways.
Our Fort Lauderdale accident lawyers understand that this increase in motor traffic also poses a serious threat to pedestrians and bicyclists in the area. Unfortunately, many of the visitors to the area will not be as seasoned and familiar with this kind of traffic. It’s a pleasure our coastline enjoys, but an unfamiliar transportation risk for many of those from out of town.
When we’re aware of each other’s presence and we work together, we can all enjoy safe travels through the big holiday weekend.
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), there will be close to 400 people killed in traffic accidents in the U.S. over the holiday weekend. This is considered the time from 6:00 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 30, and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 2.
“NSC issues fatality estimates for major holiday periods to draw attention to the need for drivers to exercise safe driving practices,” said Janet Froetscher, NSC president and CEO.
Safe Traveling Around Pedestrians and Bicyclists:
-Continuously scan the road and the sides of the road ahead for potential pedestrians and bikers.
-Before you make a turn, beware of these vulnerable travelers in the crosswalks.
-Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
-Keep all distractions out of the driver’s seat. The roadway needs you full attention, and that attention is the best way to avoid an accident.
-Make sure you’re extra cautious while reversing your vehicle. Keep an eye out for bicyclists, pedestrians and especially small children.
-The best way to keep an eye on your surroundings is so keep your windshield clean and to always drive with your headlights on.
-Remember to always yield to pedestrians and bicyclists in crosswalks, whether the crosswalks and unmarked or marked.
-Never block crosswalks. Never stop or park in these areas.
-Do not pass a vehicle that is stopped for pedestrians or bicyclists.
-Make sure that you always obey the posted speed limits. Faster speeds decrease your reaction time.
-Be cautious in areas with high volumes of on-foot or bike traffic. Do the same in areas where children are present. Children are not always able to understand the workings of motor vehicle traffic and are at high risks for accidents because of it.
-Always be ready to stop. You never know when danger is going to strike. You’ve always got to be ready.
-Be especially careful when traveling at night. Pedestrians and bicyclists are still out there, and it’s tougher to see them during this time.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a traffic accident, contact Richard Ansara at 954 761-3641 or toll-free at 877-277-3780 for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your case.
More Blog Entries:
Teens Skipping Florida GDL Program and Increasing Accident Risks, Broward Injury Lawyer Blog, August 22, 2013
Pedestrian and Bicyclist Hit by Nighttime Driver, Broward Injury Lawyer Blog, August 13, 2013
