Motor Vehicle Accidents In DC Involving Cyclists And Pedestrians

Are Streets In Washington, D.C. Too Dangerous For Pedestrians And Cyclists?

After the tragic death of a cyclist and cycling advocate, the most recent case of a fatality involving DC drivers and pedestrians or cyclists, cycling advocates held a protest rally to demand safer streets here in the District.

Over the past decade, the number of people killed while walking on our nation’s streets rose by 35% – despite vehicle occupant deaths declining by 6%. People walking and bicycling comprise an ever-increasing share of traffic deaths, accounting for 1 in 6 fatalities on DC roads.

Let’s face it, DC streets are crowded with cars, trucks, deliveries, buses, bikes, pedestrians, and now, scooters.  Is there a safe way to travel on the streets of DC anymore?  The city has installed dedicated bike lanes in many places, and now prohibits right turns on red lights – both measures meant to keep people safe on the roads.

No safety measure will stop the real cause of traffic fatalities and accidents – reckless driving.  Too many cars and trucks are speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, and running red lights.  It’s those violations of the Rules of the Road that are the cause of most serious accidents.  And yes, cyclists and pedestrians are guilty of this as well – not obeying the traffic signals, walking or biking through traffic, crossing against the light, and rolling through stop signs.

Anyone can make a mistake, but we are seeing a lot of deliberate choices to break the rules of the road – and some people are paying for this with their lives, or with life-threatening injuries after being hit by a car.

Is it up to the city to make the roads safer?  Not really – it’s up to all of us to slow down, look, stop at red lights and stop signs, get off our phones – all of the things you learned in driver’s ed are still true.

Call Our Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers Today For Your Next Steps

If you’re reading this because you were in a serious accident that wasn’t your fault and you’re wondering what to do next, or worried you could make a big mistake and get taken advantage of by the insurance company, order a copy of The Ultimate Guide to Accident Cases in the DMV today – its free and there is no obligation.  Or if you’re ready to talk about what you need to do after a serious injury, we’d love to talk to you and give you specific info that should help.

So just call us at (202) 393 – 3320.