Miami Drivers Are Among The Worst For Pedestrian Traffic Deaths
Miami - Ft. Lauderdale - Pompano Beach area have been voted the worst for pedestrians and bikers in a study confirmed and conducted by the non-profit organization Transportation for America.
Due to rapid growth that outpaces non-vehicular infrastructure, minimal public transportation, and weather that promotes walking and biking, South Florida clearly has a dilemma on its hands.
A recent report stated that there were 490 pedestrian deaths in 2008. "As Florida's growth burst at the seams, there just wasn't planning for sidewalks or anything else pedestrian friendly," says Florida Safety Council spokesman Glen Victor. The study conducted by Transportation America had found that 16.9% of Florida traffic deaths were pedestrians, and just 1.5% of Federal transportation funds allocated to the state are spent on pedestrian and bicycle projects.
DUI hit and runs have also played a factor in these deaths. In example; NFL Cleveland Browns wide receiver Donte Stallworth had been charged with DUI in a March 14 car accident where a Florida pedestrian was killed. Stallworth was driving his Bentley on MacArthur Causeway in Miami Beach around 7:15 a.m. when he struck and killed a pedestrian who was walking to catch a bus.
When a driver is involved in an accident, the driver must stop at the scene and exchange information with the other driver, this includes the involvement of a pedestrian where the police should be immediately contacted. A failure to stop at the scene of an accident, when it is reasonably safe to do so, is a criminal offense.
If you would like to find out how an experienced criminal defense firm can protect your rights, then contact Musca Law. Musca Law provides aggressive and dedicated representation to clients facing all types of charges that involve leaving the scene of an accident, including those that involve property damage, injury, or death.
