On Sunday, local Meteorologist Jim Reif was injured in a bicycle crash. According to NBC Channel Two News, Reif was riding on Ben Hill Griffin Parkway when his bicycle struck a sign. He was thrown to the ground and suffered from injuries to the head. There is no word yet on why or how his bicycle struck the sign. First responders were on the scene swiftly, because the incident happened less than a mile away from a fire station. Jim Reif, Director of Meteorology at NBC Channel Two News, has been a household name in Southwest Florida for decades. As of Sunday, his injuries were described as traumatic and his condition was listed as grave.

Bicycle Safety in the National Spotlight

A few weeks ago, we reported on the U.S. Department of Transportation’s disregard for bicycle safety. Concerned citizens and members of the League of American Bicyclists contacted their representatives during the National Bike Summit. They asked congress members to sign on to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Act: HR 3494/ S 1708. As more and more people turn to eco-friendly forms of transportation, the need for an increase in bicycle and pedestrian safety measures across the nation is absolutely critical.

Bicycle Safety in Southwest Florida

Bicycle safety in Southwest Florida needs to be a top priority for law makers, motorists, citizens and cyclists. Cyclists can improve their own personal safety by always wearing protective gear and obeying all traffic signs and signals. Additionally, high-visibility clothing, reflectors and flashing lights can improve visibility. It’s important to note that it isn’t enough to just wear a helmet and high-visibility clothing. Drivers need to lookout for bicyclists and share the road.

Sharing the Road

Sharing the road with cyclists, pedestrians and motorcycle riders is the only way to keep roadways safe for all commuters. Roadways in Southwest Florida aren’t just for cars, trucks and SUV’s. In addition to sharing the road and respecting cyclists, drivers need to put down the electronic devices. Even a seemingly minor collision with a bicycle at relatively low speeds can cause devastating and fatal injuries to a cyclist. The team at Weldon & Rothman, PL wishes Mr. Reif a full and speedy recovery.

Legal Disclaimer: The above guidelines are educational in nature and do not create an attorney/client relationship. It is highly recommended that all Florida accident victims contact an experienced local Florida personal injury attorney to assist them with specific facts and circumstances regarding their motor vehicle accident. If you have been the victim of a motor vehicle accident in Florida, then feel free to contact Attorney Weldon toll free at (877) 730-5180 or via e-mail atinfo@weldonrothman.com

Richard L. Weldon, II is an experienced Florida personal injury attorney who has obtained the AV Preeminent Rating by Martindale-Hubbell. He is the managing attorney of Weldon & Rothman, PL – a Southwest Florida law firm with offices in Naples, Fort Myers, and Sarasota.