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Thank you for sending me a copy of your report on pedestrian and bicyclist injuries in Montana. It was a pleasure to hear from you.
I agree with you that pedestrian and bicycle accidents are a serious concern. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is taking new steps through educational outreach, enforcement, and legislation to help reduce such accidents. NHTSA's pedestrian and bicycle safety programs are directed toward reducing injuries and facilities at the same time that walking and bicycling is being encouraged as alternatives to motor vehicle travel. Additional goals include: reducing the number of impaired pedestrian injuries, and fatalities, improving the safety of elderly pedestrians, and increasing bicyclists' safety by increasing helmet usage. I believe programs, such as these, will help reduce the percentage of future accidents.
Rest assured, I will keep your comments in mind if any legislation dealing with these concerns are introduced in the 105th Congress.
Thanks again for bringing this matter to my attention. I appreciate your input. If you have any additional questions or comments on this or any other issue, please do not hesitate to contact me again.