A recent study found that Bradenton-Sarasota is one of the most dangerous metro areas in the nation when it comes to pedestrian accidents. Our region was listed as the 10th-most dangerous in the survey, as an average of 20 people die every year in bicycle and pedestrian crashes.
Now, law enforcement officers say they are going to step up patrols to help cut down on the number of deadly accidents. Locals say that walking through Bradenton can be a dangerous experience — some drivers simply do not take enough care to watch for pedestrians. This happens even in areas where pedestrian walk signals have been installed, giving people on foot a clear right of way.
The design of downtown Bradenton does not help much. It has a lot of turning movements that, in times of high traffic, can make for a higher likelihood of accidents due to the congestion.
The Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization is working with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to address these problems. So far, proposed ideas include signal enhancements, more sidewalks and narrower lanes. FDOT is also considering the lowering of speed limits on some streets.
Liability in pedestrian accidents
Pedestrians always have the right of way when crossing in crosswalks or with pedestrian signals. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident due to a driver who failed to yield, you may seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other damages you’ve sustained.
To learn more about your options, meet with an experienced Bradenton personal injury attorney at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh.