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Exciting news for Osceola County walkers, bikers, and rollers! Phase 3 of the Simpson Road Improvement Project will transform a 1.13-mile stretch from Fortune Road south to US 192 in Kissimmee. The project will include a 10-foot shared-use path for bicycles and pedestrians on each side of the roadway.

With a proposed construction timeline of approximately two years, Osceola County could complete the construction project as early as mid-2025.
The best part? The Simpson Road Improvement Project will connect existing and proposed trails, making it easier and safer for Osceola county residents to get outside and active, and for drivers to hopefully avoid those walking, running, biking, or rolling.

Without a doubt, if you’re a pedestrian or bicyclist in and around Osceola County, it has become more and more dangerous to be on the roadways with the population with the huge increase of cars on the road. Here are a few tips to stay safe:

  • Walk on sidewalks when available. If there isn’t one, walk facing traffic and as far from vehicles as possible.
  • Pay attention at all times. Avoid headphones and distractions such as phones.
  • Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections when possible.
  • Wait for a gap in traffic before crossing.
  • Never enter the street while between parked cars.
  • Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots.
  • Be visible at all times. Wear bright clothing and use a flashlight at night.
  • Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the road.
  • Be predictable. Never run out in front of vehicles. Cross a road slowly and carefully.

If you are driving a vehicle in Kissimmee or anywhere around Florida, you need to be aware of pedestrians at all times. After all, failing to yield to pedestrians is illegal and can result in a citation, or worse. Here are some tips to keep in mind while driving:

  • Use extra caution when driving in areas of low visibility, such as nighttime and bad weather.
  • Slow down and be prepared to stop when at a crosswalk.
  • Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. They may be stopped for pedestrians who you can’t see.
  • Follow the speed limit, and be prepared to slow down in school zones and in neighborhoods where children are present.
  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times. You may have to slow down or stop at any time for bike riders, emergency vehicles, buses, animals, and other cars turning.
  • Be extra cautious when backing up, since pedestrians may be in your way without you knowing.

The secret is out, Osceola County is an awesome place to live, work, and play, and with that there are safety issues. If we work together, and stay aware and undistracted, we can avoid accidents, injuries, or in the worse case scenario, fatalities. If you have unfortunately been involved in an accident, whether you’re a driver, a pedestrian, or a bicyclist, you need legal representation that has experience, and a history of advocacy for those who need help.

The attorneys at Draper Law Office can help you understand your legal rights and if you have a claim, we will aggressively pursue it for you.  Draper Law has been an advocate for members of the community who need legal representation since 1984. Schedule a free consultation today by calling (407) 846.0075.  In times of need, call Draper Law!