From going to work to dropping kids at school, stopping at the grocery store afterward, attending business meetings and recreational events, moving through traffic is a constant part of our lives. Unfortunately, interaction in daily traffic can also be the cause of serious injuries and even fatalities. If you are a pedestrian or bicyclist suffering serious injuries due to the negligence of another, contact an experienced injury firm like Heintz Law as soon as possible.

All too often, distracted drivers are to blame. Motorists are often so engrossed with their smart phones today that they cannot focus on the obvious task at hand: getting from point A to B, and safely. But as messages and calls come in—and sometimes at rapid speed—some drivers may forget what they are doing and take their eyes completely off the road for an alarming amount of time. This can result in catastrophic injuries for all involved, and unfortunately, pedestrians and bicyclists are extremely vulnerable without the protection of a vehicle.

If you are a fan of walking or bicycling in areas with traffic, you must also be diligent about protecting yourself as much as possible from reckless drivers, drunk drivers, and sleepy drivers. Other motorists must practice defensive driving, but if you are traveling on foot or two wheels, extreme caution must be practiced—along with assuring that everyone else can see you.

The CDC reports annual numbers of over 5,000 pedestrian deaths and over 100,000 visitors to the emergency room after ‘crash-related injuries.’ Statistics for bicyclists are more frightening, with more than 1,000 dying in 2015, and nearly 500,000 injuries.

Walking and bicycling present the greatest hazards at night. No matter your mode of travel, it is best to consider the following:

• Wear brightly colored clothing.
• Avoid dark shirts and dark pants, making you virtually invisible at night.
• Don neon vests or strips, as well as brightly colored or neon hats.
• Attach neon, glow-in-the-dark strips to your bicycle.
• Only cross the road at illuminated crosswalks.
• Make sure that your bicycle is equipped with lights.

Alcohol and drugs can play a big factor in accidents as well, so while you should be looking out for reckless or drunken drivers, also make sure you are not under the influence when taking off on an excursion. Follow all appropriate traffic rules so motorists are not surprised by your appearance in traffic. Avoid jaywalking or swerving into traffic or other lanes on your bicycle, in the dark especially.

If you or a loved one have been injured as a pedestrian or bicyclist due to the negligence of others, please call Heintz Law for a free consultation with one of our personal injury attorneys. We handle all types of Florida personal injury cases, and our law firm has established an impressive record of verdicts and settlements. If you have been seriously injured, call us now at 941-748-2916 or contact us online. We are here to help!