Pedestrian and Bicycle Accident Attorneys in Crestview
As more and more Americans determined to remain or become healthy, take to brisk walks and open-road cycling, the incidents of accidents with injuries occurring are at an all-time high. That is true for the majority of the country, especially Florida with our fine weather, where local habitants, visitors and even sightseers, often take advantage of exercise, exploring and enjoying the outdoors. Here in Florida’s panhandle, this is particularly true, with our flat terrain, sunshiny days and lots of open space to use as they see fit.
Unfortunately, cyclists and pedestrians have to contend with the growing number of automobile and commercial vehicles sharing the roadways with them. Often times, there appears a hazard around every corner. People love to walk and ride bicycles, preserving the environment, improving their health and fitness, even saving on gas expenses, and the feeling of being involved in an activity where they think they have control over their own circumstances. But with all its popularity, walking and cycling can be a dangerous occupation and accidents with injuries come at a high price. Individuals walking or riding for their own health many times end up with exactly the opposite result.
Why Hire Whibbs Stone Barnett Turner, PA if You Have Been Injured in an Accident
At Whibbs Stone Barnett Turner PA, we understand the rights of bicyclists and pedestrians whose rights have been violated because of a negligent motorist. All too often, motorists take for granted they have rules and responsibilities when sharing the roadways with pedestrians and cyclists. For over 30 years, we have been handling accident cases involving pedestrians and cyclists. Unprotected as there are increases the chances of serious injuries and even death when coming into contact with a motorist. Our trial-experienced attorneys have very high expectations on what an injury case is worth knowing the victims often times are out of work for long periods of time, have current and future medical bills and have to endure the pain and suffering caused by a negligent driver more concerned with themselves then the individuals they are sharing a common space with. We have handled 1000’s of injury cases, retaining 100’s of millions of dollars in awards and compensation for our injured clients. As accident attorneys we are very sensitive to the fact that you or a loved one have been injured and all you want is fair compensation for those injured and to get back to the quality of life you had before you were injured. We are here to help make that a reality.
Florida’s Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Program
The State of Florida has one of the highest rates of pedestrian and bicyclist crashes and fatalities in the Nation. The Florida Department of Transportation created a comprehensive safety program emphasizing driver education and safety. The majority of crashes involved in these types of accidents can be avoided if motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists follow the rules of the road and watch out for each other.
2022 data provided by the Florida Department of Highway Safety Motor Vehicle, shows that the number of crashes rose slightly in Okaloosa County, with 33 total bicyclist and pedestrian accidents reported. Okaloosa County is committed to bicycle safety and education strategies to reduce traffic crashes resulting in serious or fatal injuries to pedestrians and bicyclists.
Florida’s Three-Foot Law
New Protections for Cyclists and Pedestrians
Gov. Ron DeSantis signed new legislation aimed at making roads safer for bicyclists and pedestrians. Drivers now must give bicyclists a minimum of 3 feet of clearance, when passing or driving alongside of them. There is also a State Senate Bill 950 giving motor vehicle operators the ability to move over to left-of-center in no-passing-zones to accommodate bicyclists or pedestrians they pass. Additionally, the bill requires a vehicle making a right turn while passing a bicyclist or walking pedestrian, a 20-foot clearance from the intersection or on coming roadway.
Contact Our Office Today for a Free Consultation
At Whibbs Stone Barnett Turner, PA, we are committed to protecting the rights of cyclists and pedestrians, to share the roads safely and without risking life and limb. Furthermore, our personal injury attorneys are dedicated to securing fair compensation for cyclists or pedestrians injured because of the carelessness of a motorist. As a bicyclist or pedestrian, you deserve a personal injury attorney who shares your love and enthusiasm for enjoying the outdoors without incurring an injury or fatality in many cases. Give us a call to speak directly to an attorney who can explain your rights to fair compensation and protect your legal interests. We have no fees or costs associated with any personal injury case unless we recover compensation for your injuries.
