Other than our beaches, nightlife, and weather, Miami is known for streets and drivers that present grave dangers to pedestrians and cyclists. However, cycling and walking are often the favored forms of transportation for those visiting South Florida. These traditional forms of transportation allow visitors the perfect vantage point to enjoy the local sights and the opportunity to closely experience our vibrant atmosphere.
According to the County's Metropolitan Planning Organization, 40% of the traffic fatalities in Miami-Dade County involve bicyclists and pedestrians. On a recent list of cities with the worst road rage, Miami ranks 7th in the nation. This survey took into account the amount of drivers who lose their tempers, tailgate, speed, and honk. Any local will tell you that this list is most likely correct. Drivers in Miami are often reckless and fail to take account not only other drivers, but often the most defenseless - cyclists and pedestrians.
Pedestrian accidents and bicycle accidents frequently lead to very serious or fatal injuries. Both also have a high number of cases in which an at-fault motorist does not stop. When a motorist fails to stop, or when an at-fault driver does not have adequate insurance to compensate a victim for his or her injuries, victims of a Florida bicycle or pedestrian accident are often able to file a claim against their own insurance company.
Our Miami bike accident lawyers urge motorists who have been injured in a bicycle or pedestrian accident to consult an experienced attorney right away. We recommend that you not sign any documents -- either from your insurance company or the company of the at-fault driver -- and do not accept any payments until speaking to an experienced attorney.
Bicycle and pedestrian accidents frequently involve serious head injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, joint injuries and other medical conditions that require extensive care and often lead to additional medical complications. Hiring an attorney capable of protecting your rights in a dispute with an insurance company in Miami is critical to protecting the long-term financial well-being of you and your family.
Recently, a pedestrian in Miami was struck by a hit-and-run and driver after he attempted to pass a stopped bus. He struck the pedestrian as he tried to passed the bus on the sidewalk. As a result of this horrible incident, here is a list of tips for drivers to follow so they can prevent endangering pedestrians.
1. Always watch for pedestrians. Pedestrians can be encountered anytime and anywhere, even where there shouldn't be.
2. Pedestrians are hard to see. Especially in bad weather or at night, keep a lookout for pedestrians. Slow down if you can't see.
3. Stop at crosswalks. Make sure to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks - even when they are unmarked. When stopping, stop far enough so that other drivers in other lanes can see the pedestrians as well.
4. Take extra care for pedestrians when turning. We often wait for a gap in traffic when making turns. Beware that while waiting for that gap a pedestrian may have moved into your intended path.
5. Pay extra attention in areas known for foot-traffic. These areas included schools, churches, playgrounds, and city centers with noted density.
