Why roadways are so dangerous to pedestrians and bicyclists

Each year in Connecticut, an alarming number of pedestrians and bicyclists are seriously injured in motor vehicle accidents. The shocking incidence of motor vehicle accidents involving pedestrians and bicyclists begs the question of why our roadways are so dangerous..

Rate of Connecticut motor vehicle accidents involving pedestrians and bicyclists

The rate of Connecticut motor vehicle accidents involving pedestrians and bicyclists is particularly alarming. In 2020, 310 motor vehicle accidents resulted in the deaths of pedestrians or bicyclists. Connecticut witnessed a disturbing 22% increase in these types of fatalities between 2019 and 2020, despite a marked reduction of the number of vehicles on the road.

Why are pedestrians and bicyclists at risk?

There are a number of reasons why roadways are proving particularly dangerous for pedestrians and bicyclists. This references pedestrians and bicyclists who are obeying the law and end up serious injured or even killed in motor vehicle accidents. There are three particularly common underlying reasons for motor vehicle accidents that cause serious and even fatal injuries to pedestrians and bicyclists:

• Driving above the posted speed limit and speed limits that are too high for a stretch of roadway in the first instance
• Roadway design that ignore the safety needs of pedestrians and bicyclists
• Vehicle designs that ignore the needs of people on foot and riding bicycles

If you or a loved one have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, a Connecticut personal injury attorney can explain your legal rights. The first step in retaining legal representation is scheduling an initial consultation so that you can describe what happened.