When the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported back in 2012 that 726 bike riders were killed and another 49,000 individuals were injured in bicycle accidents across the U.S., South Florida officials took note. Just a few years later, Miami-Dade County unveiled its Protected Bike Lanes Demonstration Plan, which incorporates several designated bicycle lanes with so-called “bike buffer” zones intended to protect riders. Expanding the space between motor vehicles and bicycles has been proven to decrease collisions and save lives.
While there can be no doubt that bike buffer zones are effective, they will never entirely eliminate the risk of collisions with motor vehicles. A Miami bicycle accidents attorney can assist with your legal options if you were hurt, but an overview on protected bicycle lanes may help you protect yourself.
How Buffer Zones Protect Bicycle Riders