Pedestrian and bicycle collisions increase every spring as our Spokane weather warms up. Children are out riding bicycles and families take an evening stroll around their neighborhood. Many drivers are still in a “winter mindset” and aren’t used to looking for folks waiting to cross the street or sharing the road with a bicyclist, yet.
The City of Spokane issued a press release to increase the awareness of drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists about sharing our roadways. 2023 saw a 44% increase in pedestrian collisions over 2022. Drivers must keep an eye on pedestrians and bicycles if they’re nearby. To avoid distracted driving, turn cell phones completely off or use Do Not Disturb While Driving functions. Even though they may seem out of harm’s way, children can be unpredictable and might run into the street chasing a ball or swerve their bike into traffic.
The good news is that the City was recently awarded a federal grant to improve pedestrian and bicyclist safety. Additionally, speed limits near many Spokane parks and playgrounds will be reduced in mid-June when schools let out for summer. These changes should help lower both the number of accidents and the severity of injuries. Simply driving a little slower allows for shorter stopping distances and reduces the force if a collision occurs.
Pedestrians and bicyclists can also contribute to their own safety. Bright clothing, flashlights or other forms of illumination can help drivers see pedestrians and bicyclists as dusk approaches and at night. Pedestrians should always use sidewalks, when available, or on the left edge of the roadway so they can see oncoming motor vehicles and hop out of the way, if a 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!