USF Cracks Down On Traffic Laws To Save Lives

On Behalf of | Feb 4, 2016 | Auto-Pedestrian Accidents, Car Accidents |

Many pedestrians and cyclists have lost their lives in accidents around the University of South Florida campus. Today, small wooden bikes and crosses mark where the tragedies have occurred as part of a new statewide awareness effort and crackdown on traffic laws. Starting in February, USF and university police will increase warnings and citations for anyone breaking the law, no matter how minor the infraction may seem, including jaywalking. The effort is part of a statewide push to reduce pedestrian and cyclist deaths in Florida. Those given warnings or tickets will also receive educational handouts that USF and police say will help to clarify the law and remind everyone to share the road.

Florida Bicyclist Deaths Highest In U.S.
Hillsborough County Pedestrian Deaths At All-Time High

In 2015, Florida led the nation in the highest bicyclist death rate, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hillsborough County has some of the most dangerous roads in the state, with 51 pedestrian deaths last year – the highest rate on record and a substantial increase from 34 deaths in 2014. And these numbers do not account for the many other bike and pedestrian accidents that resulted in serious injuries.

When a driver fails to yield to the pedestrian right of way, or a cyclist or pedestrian makes a critical mistake, the results can be devastating. At Culpepper Kurland, we encourage Tampa residents to follow the rules of the road. Avoid driving or biking under the influence of alcohol and obey traffic signals. If you’re driving a vehicle, yield to pedestrians and cyclists, and don’t speed. If you are involved in a serious accident, contact our law firm for support and guidance.

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attorneys Brad Culpepper and Brett J. Kurland