Florida Tops List as Deadliest State for Bicyclists
Being a warm-weather state, it makes sense that more people are riding bikes in Florida, for pleasure and as a means of transportation. Not only are more people riding, but people are able to ride year-round.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Sunshine State riders are at risk, as Florida was recently named the number-one deadliest state in the nation for bicyclists. In 2007, Florida even topped similar warm-weather state California, having 119 bicyclist deaths compared to California's 109; as well as surpassed the traffic-heavy New York, who only had 51 deaths that year.
Some may suggest that the high number of deaths is simply due to the fact that people are able to cycle year-round in Florida, which is not possible in many other states. However, cycling advocates are saying there are other contributing factors. There is not only a growing number of cars on our roads, but also an evident lack of bicycle lanes and paths next to these busy roads.
City and state officials are trying to influence this trend for the better. In the past few years, the state has adopted guidelines which suggest that the new major roads and reconstruction projects be altered to include lanes for bicyclists. In Hillsborough County, both the Sheriff's Office and the Tampa Police give seminars on bicycle safety for kids, and give away helmets to children.
Despite efforts, bicycle-auto accidents are still very prevalent in the community. As recently as April 10, 2009, a Riverview man who was biking was struck from behind by a car and killed. The hit and run accident occurred on U.S. 301 south of Riverview Court.
Alan Snel, who is a local biking enthusiast and the director of eight local retail bicycle stores, insisted to the Tampa Tribune, (TBO.com) that we need to make a change in our "car culture" to educate the biking and driving communities and come to an understanding that they are sharing the roads.
At the Law Office of John T. Grove we handle accidents involving cyclists and motor vehicles. These cases involve not only the car insurance for the driver, but also the auto insurance for the cyclist. It is important to know your rights. If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, call us today for a free consultation to discuss your insurance coverage.
