Boston Injury Lawyer Blog
The Safer People, Safer Streets Initiative was launched by the U.S. Transportation Department to help communities develop safer walking and bicycling networks. The department is conducting research and providing new resources to pedestrians and bicyclists so that everyone can have a safer, more enjoyable experience. For example, field offices for the department are working with various transportation agencies to assess the safety of roadways across the country. As bicycling continues to rise in popularity, accidents rise right along with it. Bicycling and walking are healthy, environmentally-friendly activities, and we should encourage their growth. Let’s work together to make the roadways safer for everyone, non-motorized travelers included. Contact a Boston Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today.
Fewer People are Getting Behind the Wheel
Millennials use motorized vehicles significantly less than their Gen X and Baby Boomer counterparts. Young people drive fewer miles, use public transportation frequently, and often postpone getting their driver’s licenses. That means more people on the roads, biking and walking. In fact, annual ‘miles driven’ statistics are lower than they’ve been in decades. With ride-sharing, bike-sharing, and apps such as Uber, people are much less reliant on cars and trucks to get them from here to there. This trend is likely to continue.
The good news is, walking and bicycling are excellent forms of exercise. They also save money, and are much better for the environment than driving. The bad news? Since 2009, pedestrian and bicyclist injuries and deaths have steadily risen. Due to high populations and heavy traffic in cities, urban areas see the most accidents. In 2012, 73% of pedestrian fatalities and 69% of bicyclist fatalities occurred in urban areas. Sadly, the majority of pedestrian fatalities occur in lower-income sections of urban areas. This is often due to poorly maintained roadways, uneven walkways, and other ‘environmental’ issues that typically plague low income areas.
Alcohol Involved in the Majority of Bicyclist and Pedestrian Fatalities
In 2012, alcohol was involved in more than 37% of bicyclist fatalities and 48% of pedestrian fatalities involving traffic crashes. In some cases, the motor vehicle driver was the culprit, but in many of these fatal accidents, the bicyclist or pedestrian was the one impaired by alcohol. Never ride a bike under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and avoid high-traffic areas if you are walking after a few drinks. After those influenced by alcohol, individuals over age 65 and between the ages of 5 and 15 are most at risk of being seriously injured or killed as a pedestrian.
Altman & Altman, LLP – Boston’s Bicycle Accident Law Firm
If you’ve been injured while bicycling, it is in your best interest to work with a skilled personal injury attorney who has experience in this specific area. The personal injury team at Altman & Altman, LLP has been working with victims of bicycle and pedestrian accidents for more than 50 years. We will assess your case to determine the best strategy before moving forward. If another person’s negligence caused you harm, we can help. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more. Contact Altman & Altman, LLP today for a free and confidential consultation about your case.
