Pedestrian and bicycle accidents increase every year as the weather in Spokane warms up. Automobile drivers just aren’t used to sharing the roads, yet. Adults and children get outside for a stroll and ride their bikes around neighborhoods and parks. This year, during COVID-19, school let out a little early. Although, many of us are driving less, there are more children are playing outside when they would normally be learning inside their school building.
Lowering speed limits near parks and playgrounds is a good first step toward reducing both the number of accidents and also the severity of bodily injuries. As motor vehicle speeds increase, there is an increase in the frequency of accidents and an increase in injury severity. Simply driving a little slower allows for shorter stopping distances and reduces the force if a collision occurs.
Another step is to increase the awareness of drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists about sharing our roadways. Drivers must turn off electronic devices and use the Do Not Disturb While Driving function on their cell phones. Drivers should be on the lookout for pedestrians and bicycles and keep an eye on them if they’re nearby. Even though they may seem out of harm’s way, children might run into a street chasing a ball or swerve their bike into traffic.
Pedestrians and bicyclists can also contribute to their own safety. Bright clothing, flashlights or some other form of illumination can help drivers see pedestrians and bicyclists as dusk approaches and at night. Pedestrians should walk on sidewalks or on the left edge of the roadway so they can see oncoming motor vehicles and hop out of the way, if the driver fails to yield.
Each of us can help reduce the frequency and the severity of pedestrian and bicycle accidents. If you or a loved one have been seriously injured by a motor vehicle in a pedestrian accident or bicycle accident, then contact Cooney Law Offices. We can help!