Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Attorney Blog
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has been running the Stop Red-Light Running Program since 1995 working to help to educate motorists about the risks associated with running red lights. One of the highlights of this program is National Stop on Red Week, which takes place this first week of August.
Since this program started, it’s been able to help to reduce the number of red-light runners by nearly 20 percent. Still, there are far too many motorist speeding through intersections and causing deadly accidents. It’s not only motorists who are at risk either. Oftentimes, bicyclists and pedestrians are the ones who suffer a brunt of the damage and injuries.
Our Fort Lauderdale accident attorneys understand that these accidents are accounting for a large amount of the traffic fatalities we see every year. As a matter of fact, the number of pedestrians fatalities in 2010 saw a steep increase from the year before. Many believe that the increase in these fatalities is a direct result of red-light runners.
Pedestrians are urged to cross the road at crosswalks and at street corners, but many may be hesitant because of the fear of encountering a red-light runner. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), is urging motorists to slow it down, to obey traffic signals and to keep an eye out for these vulnerable travelers.
As a matter of fact, the NHTSA reported that the number of pedestrian fatalities recorded in the U.S. rose by nearly 5 percent in 2010.
“Whether you choose to travel by foot or car, it’s important to share the roads and stay alert,” said USDOT Secretary Ray LaHood.
The most recent statistics show that nearly 4,300 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents in 2010. That’s nearly 200 more than the year before. These accidents accounted for nearly 15 percent of all traffic fatalities for the year and nearly 5 percent of all of the injuries reported. Most of these accidents happened in urban areas at non-intersections. About 90 percent of them happened in clear weather. About 70 percent occurred at night.
Florida saw a good portion of these accidents, too. We’re consistently one of the deadliest states for pedestrian accidents, injuries and fatalities in the nation.
We have large number of pedestrians, tourists and older residents, and that’s why it’s so important for both vehicular and on-foot traffic to be on the lookout for one another, especially in hard-to-see conditions and at night.
Pedestrians need to keep their attention on their surroundings at all times. You can’t rely on the driving habits of others to keep you safe. Be on the lookout for motorists who aren’t obeying traffic laws and who are putting your safety in jeopardy. Avoid engaging in distractions while walking and stay as far away from traffic when you can.
If you have been injured in an accident, contact Freeman & Mallard for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your rights. Call 1-800-561-7777.
More Blog Entries:
Pedestrian Accident Watch: Woman Killed by Passing Car While Mowing Grass, South Florida Injury Lawyers Blog, August 7, 2012
Accident on the Florida Turnpike Kills Pedestrian, South Florida Injury Lawyers Blog, July 4, 2012