Across the Bay area more and more pedestrians and bicyclist are getting injured and even killed by cars. The Florida Department of Transportation is giving many police departments money to focus just on pedestrian and bicycle safety.
Paul Ditty says he has depended on his bike for five years to get around Auburndale and is on high alert when he is riding. "Drivers make you get in the grass, and you are about to kill yourself."
He says he has to be extra careful because he says drivers aren't paying attention. "I have to be cautious with other people, and whatever happens, happens," says Ditty.
The Auburndale Police Department has received a grant from the state that allows some officers to spend 3 to 4 hours a week just enforcing the rules of the road. They will be looking for drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians who are unsafe. "They are walking on the wrong side of the road, or they are riding their bike on the wrong side of the road, they are not crossing at an intersection," says Assistant Chief Andy Ray.
The police department has identified where pedestrian and bicycle-related crashes have increased over the past two years. Ray says, "I think sometimes drivers are focused on other cars on the road, and not as focused on pedestrians and bicycles."
Ray says many people don't realize a bicyclist has as many rights to the road as drivers. "If there is a sidewalk they don't have to use it. But it may recommended."
Ditty says he looks forward to the day when people treat bicyclists with a little more respect, saying "No, they are not very consider it at all."
Auburndale police say they will first emphasize safety education but may also give out tickets. The grant will run thru May 2016.
