In Pinellas County, more choices for bikers and pedestrians are in the works.
Several initiatives are being worked on by Forward Pinellas and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to improve safety and bicycle recreation.
Several recently constructed pedestrian bridges on US 19 are part of these changes.
One was just opened by FDOT in Clearwater on Harn Boulevard. In Palm Harbor, another one is being constructed close to Curlew Road.
Work on a new crossing across the Pinellas County side of the Courtney Campbell Causeway is anticipated to begin in the fall of 2024. According to Forward Pinellas officials, this bridge will have bigger ramps than the previous one at Harn, making it easier for bicycles to access the neighboring trails.
In addition, a multi-use trail that allows bikers to cross the bay is part of the plans for the new Howard Frankland Bridge.
These bridges are being built by FDOT to increase safety for Pinellas County cyclists and pedestrians, who are nonetheless frequently in danger when riding on busy roadways.
How Common Are Bicycle & Pedestrian Accidents in Pinellas County?
According to the FLHSMV, so far into 2024, Pinellas County has had 93 pedestrian accidents resulting in 4 deaths, and 157 bicycle crashes resulting in 1 fatality. Pinellas County had a reported 487 pedestrian crashes in 2023, resulting in 42 pedestrian deaths. The county also saw 652 bicycle crashes in 2023, resulting in 12 bicycle fatalities.
What Are The Most Common Bike Accident Injuries?
Broken arms and legs are the most common injuries sustained in bicycle accidents. If the rider is not wearing a helmet, head injuries are also prevalent and can range from minor concussions to serious trauma. Friction from the road surface often results in road rash, which is another common consequence. More serious injuries, such as internal bleeding, and spinal injuries, are frequently suffered in crashes involving cars.
After a Bicycle Accident, Should I See a Doctor Even if I Feel OK?
Yes. Bike accident victims should contact a doctor as soon as possible after a crash because some injuries may not exhibit symptoms right away and waiting too long to get treatment could be fatal.
What Should I Do After a Pedestrian Accident?
Call 911 for immediate medical assistance. Make sure you get examined by a qualified medical practitioner even if you do not feel hurt. Never jeopardize your health. Get checked out right away by a physician, EMT, or another medical specialist.
Do I Need to Notify Police?
Yes. If you have been hurt in a pedestrian or bicycle accident in Pinellas County, call the police immediately, regardless of whether you think it was a minor collision. The police will investigate the collision and write a report that could be useful to you in the future when filing a personal injury lawsuit.
After a Pedestrian or Bicycle Accident, What Should I Do if the Vehicle Leaves the Scene?
Try to recall as much information as you can about the driver that caused your pedestrian accident. What color was the vehicle? What model and make is it? What was the number on the license plate? Which gender was the driver? Old or young? Every detail is important! Provide the authorities with as much information as you can regarding the driver and the car. If the driver is found, you may be able to seek compensation from their insurance company. If the driver is not located, you may be able to submit a claim with your own insurance provider.
When Should I Call an Attorney? Continue reading
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