As a personal injury lawyer that frequently helps potential clients with bicycle and pedestrian accidents claims, I am always interested in ways to reduce roadway traffic collisions and was curious to know whether roadway re-configurations were effective in doing so.
RI Bicycle accident lawyer
The most frequent type of re-configure is called the “road diet”. As explained by the U.S. Department of Transportation (Federal Highway Administration) (DOT), the most typical “road diet” consists of making a four lane road into a three lane road with two lanes in opposite directions, a middle turn lane and potential for bike lanes or emergency lanes on either side.
Why are multi-lane surface streets so dangerous for bike riders and pedestrians?
In many areas, four lane roads are either not abutted by sidewalks or are in municipalities which prohibit the use of sidewalks by bike riders. This leaves very little room for a cyclist to travel with a buffer space between their bike and motor vehicles. In addition, the unfortunate fact for pedestrians is that multiple lane roads without frequent intersections or crosswalks provide multiple chances to be struck while crossing the roadway.
Reducing the number of lanes
How does reducing the number of lanes, adding a middle island and increasing bike or parking lanes on road edges improve safety?
The empirical studies conducted by the DOT show that reducing the number of lanes and adding a turn lane and additional space and potential parking or bike lanes along the edges of the road decreases both the number and severity of injury and fatality incidents related to cycle and foot traffic. Their studies indicate that decreasing lane counts tends to decrease motor vehicle speed and compliance with speed limits. It also allows for the potential for pedestrian islands where persons crossing the highway on foot can pause between opposing directions of travel. In addition, it allows for space along the curbsides to place either on street parking or bike lanes which both add space between bikers and cars and add an additional buffer between automobiles and pedestrian traffic.
Traffic accidents involving bike riders
Do traffic accidents involving walkers and bike riders still occur even on modified multi-lane surface streets?
Unfortunately, no amount of modifications completely eliminates the risk that a car, truck or other motor vehicle will impact a pedestrian or cyclist on a multi-lane road. There are too many variables that come into play including the most unpredictable variable, namely, the potential for human error and negligence in the operation of the motor vehicle. People speed and do not always provide either persons traveling on foot or by bike enough distance no matter how the roadway is set. For this reason, it is imperative that bike riders and pedestrians always use caution when traveling on or near roads with motorized transportation. It is important to seek out the advice and assistance of a quality personal injury lawyer if you are injured on a bike or on foot and to do so promptly as the lawyer is best suited to investigate these types of claims and to determine if fault lies with the driver and the extent of compensation to which one may be entitled.
Steven M. Sweat is a founding partner of Glotzer and Sweat, LLP, a personal injury law firm based in Los Angeles, CA. He is a regular contributor to this and other blogs related on personal injury law related to pedestrian safety and accidents and bike accident and injury claims.
Sources: U.S. Department of Transportation, “Road Diet”, Roadway Configurations — “Safe Roads for a Safer Future”
Yes, roadway configurations can have a significant impact on bicycle and pedestrian accidents. The design and layout of roads and streets play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of all road users, including cyclists and pedestrians. Here are some ways in which roadway configurations can affect bicycle and pedestrian accidents:
- Bike Lanes and Multi-Use Paths: Providing dedicated bike lanes or multi-use paths separated from vehicular traffic can significantly reduce the risk of accidents involving cyclists and pedestrians. These designated spaces create a safer environment for non-motorized users.
- Crosswalks and Pedestrian Signals: Well-marked crosswalks, pedestrian signals, and pedestrian-friendly intersections are essential for ensuring the safety of pedestrians. Properly designed intersections with pedestrian-friendly features can reduce the risk of accidents.
- Traffic Calming Measures: Roadway configurations that include traffic calming measures, such as speed bumps, roundabouts, and reduced speed limits, can help reduce the risk of accidents involving cyclists and pedestrians by slowing down vehicular traffic.
- Separation from High-Speed Traffic: Roads with high-speed traffic and limited separation from cyclists and pedestrians can be dangerous. Roadway configurations that separate non-motorized users from high-speed roads, such as by creating barriers or alternative routes, can enhance safety.
- Intersection Design: The design of intersections, including the presence of turning lanes, signalization, and clear visibility for all road users, can impact the safety of cyclists and pedestrians. Well-designed intersections can reduce the risk of collisions.
- Sidewalks and Shoulder Width: Adequate sidewalk and shoulder width is crucial for pedestrian safety. Narrow sidewalks or shoulders may force pedestrians to walk in or near the road, increasing their vulnerability to accidents.
- Lighting and Visibility: Adequate street lighting and visibility-enhancing features, such as reflective paint and signage, are essential for the safety of cyclists and pedestrians, especially during low-light conditions.
- Traffic Enforcement: The enforcement of traffic rules, such as yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks and obeying speed limits, plays a crucial role in reducing accidents involving cyclists and pedestrians. Roadway configurations can support or hinder effective enforcement.
- Complete Streets: The concept of “complete streets” involves designing roadways that accommodate all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and public transportation. These street designs prioritize safety and accessibility for all users.
- Land Use and Urban Planning: The overall layout of a city or community, including the proximity of residential areas to commercial and recreational areas, can influence the likelihood of pedestrian and bicycle accidents. Well-planned urban environments can promote walking and cycling while reducing car dependency.
In conclusion, roadway configurations are a fundamental factor in preventing bicycle and pedestrian accidents. Safe and well-designed road infrastructure that takes into account the needs and safety of non-motorized users is essential for reducing the risk of accidents and promoting active transportation. Proper planning, design, and maintenance of roadways can help create a safer environment for cyclists and pedestrians.
If you were injured in a Bike or Pedestrian Accident in RI, Please contact David Slepkow 401-437-1100