Could Pedestrian Friendly Road Laws Reduce Fatalities?
Could Pedestrian Friendly Road Laws Reduce Fatalities?

Pedestrian deaths have become a major cause for concern in the U.S., as they have continued to rise in recent years. Could pedestrian friendly road design help solve the problem? The results from a new study are hopeful.

In 1984, the state of Florida implemented a law mandating roadway design that accommodates pedestrians and cyclists. The Journal of Public Health calls this type of mandate a “Complete Street” policy. These policies require that all new roads being designed accommodate non-vehicle users. Many states and localities have tried to improve pedestrian safety through add-ons to existing roads, but Complete Street policies are less common.

Florida’s Complete Street Policies Save Lives

In a study conducted by the Safe States Alliance in Atlanta, researchers found that Florida’s Complete Street law led to a significant reduction in pedestrian deaths, when compared with other states. Florida’s fatalities declined by about half a percent more each quarter than in the whole U.S. According to the researchers, that adds up to an estimated 3,500-3,900 additional lives saved over the three decades since the law was implemented.

With pedestrian fatalities continuing to rise in the U.S., Complete Street policies are certainly worth consideration by other states—especially those with high pedestrian fatality rates.

“Sadly, it is becoming increasingly unsafe to walk or bike on U.S. roadways. Changes must be made to make our roads safer for pedestrians,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured in an auto accident and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.

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