Walking and bicycling in our beautiful community is fun, healthy, and a great family activity but a bicycle isn’t a toy, it’s a vehicle and while walking there are some simple rules to follow to insure your safety.
Florida leads the country in most bicycle and pedestrian fatalities. Florida has been one of the top four deadliest states for pedestrians in the United States. In 2023, there were 778 pedestrian fatalities in Florida, which is a result of 10,290 pedestrian accidents. Pedestrians between the ages of 65 and 74 have the highest fatality rate.
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, there were more than 4000 bicycle accidents and over 100 fatalities throughout the state in 2023. Approximately 90% of bicycle accident deaths are caused by motor vehicles, and even in these types of accidents that don’t result in death, the cyclist is often gravely injured.
There are many reasons why this is the case, but the most common are failure to yield the right of way by drivers of motor vehicles, poor visibility, disregarding traffic signs and improper turns. All the more reason for cyclists and pedestrians to be aware of the “Rules of the Road” and to maintain a defensive awareness while riding and walking on the open road.
In all states bicycles on the roadway are considered vehicles. Bicyclists are the drivers of these vehicles with the same rights and responsibilities as motorists to follow these “Rules of the Road”. Likewise, pedestrians must be alert at all times, use sidewalks where available and follow some simple rules to insure your safety.
– Bicycles must ride WITH the traffic flow NOT against – Pedestrians must walk facing traffic when walking on the road – Obey all traffic laws. STOP & SPEED LIMIT SIGNS are there for a reason. – Vehicles must yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk, full stop before proceeding – Yield to motor vehicle traffic if you are unsure of the drivers intent – Look in all directions before turning or entering an intersection – Be predictable. Use verbal and non-verbal communication to signal your intent – Be alert at all times. Don’t use personal electronics while you ride or walk – Watch for parked cars with unexpected doors opening – Wear bright clothing during the day & wear reflective clothing & use a light at night.
For more information visit the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles website at http://www.flhsmv.gov/safety-center/driving-safety/ pedestrian-safety/
