Boston Personal Injury Attorney Blog
Officials in Boston and in Springfield are looking to make the area greener.
According to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), they’re working to triple the share of travel in the state by transit, walking and biking. This is an established vision that’s going to sweep the state. Not only is it going to help to whip residents and visitors into shape, but it’s going to help to save money and to make the roadways a little less congested. It’s a win-win for everyone.
Our Boston personal injury attorneys understand that an increase in this kind of vulnerable traffic is going to bring about an increase in the risks for accidents, injuries and fatalities. We’re asking all of those who continue to commute by vehicle, to be cautious of travelers of all kinds. Bicyclists and pedestrians are entitled to our roadways too and they follow laws of their own to help to reduce the risks of accidents. Safe travel is a team effort.
What officials are trying to do is to allow other forms of transportation to absorb the travel demand that continues to contribute to highway congestion. This is an obstacle that’s slowing down our potential for economic growth. By getting more people out on their feet and out on their bicycles, we will all be able to offer a helping hand in the fight against obesity. Currently, we’re seeing some record rates of obesity across the country.
MassDOT may be dealing with a tight budget and limited resources, but officials say they’re ready to tackle the challenge and provide healthy and sustainable transportation options for all customers.
“We all have a stake in achieving a statewide mode shift goal and establishing a sustainable transportation system that meets all our customers’ needs and that we can afford to maintain.” said Richard A. Davey, Secretary for MassDOT.
One of the main goals of this project is to also help to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emission. Officials with MassDOT are looking to reduce the level of GHG emission by at least 25 percent by 2020.
Pedestrians and bicyclists are more likely to be injured or killed in an accident with an automobile than the occupants of the vehicle.
Safety Tips:
-Make sure you use sidewalks and bike lanes. Stay away from vehicular traffic.
-Wear bright colors to be easily seen by motorists. If you’re walking near dawn or dusk, you should also make sure you’re equipped with a flashlight and reflectors.
-Only cross at crosswalks or at street corners. You’re more likely to get into an accident when jaywalking (or biking) because motorists don’t expect you in these areas.
-Avoid traveling at night. Drivers are less likely to see you in the dark.
If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in an accident, contact Boston Personal Injury Lawyer Jeffrey S. Glassman for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your case. Call 877-617-5333.
More Blog Entries:
Pedestrian Seriously Injured in Sadbury Auto Accident, Boston Personal Injury Attorney Blog, October 26, 2012
Parking Spaces Making More Spaces for Smaller Vehicles, Boston Personal Injury Attorney Blog, October 22, 2012