Shortly after a hit-and-run driver struck a couple biking on Clearwater’s Memorial Causeway, state officials announced that they aim to designate bicycle lanes in order to help make that specific stretch of State Road 60 safer for all bicyclists. The accident left a 25-year-old male rider dead, and a 27-year-old female rider seriously injured.
According to spokeswoman Kristen Carson, the Florida Department of Transportation intends to paint symbols of bicycles along the road’s paved shoulders, officially designating them as bike lanes. Paved shoulders in that area are as wide as 5 feet.
Local bicyclists feel that any form of sign or marking will add a sense of security.
Both state and local officials encourage bicyclists to use a paved pedestrian and bike trail on the causeway that is 15-feet wide and close to the water. Bicyclists traveling at speeds greater than 15 mph, however, have difficulty using the trail as skateboarders, runners, and dog walkers heavily use it. Other bicyclists also prefer to avoid the manhole covers and debris found on the road shoulders.
A 29-year-old Clearwater driver was arrested in connection with the fatal bicycle accident. He told police that he blacked out, and does not remember hitting anything or anyone.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a bicycle accident contact us at 1-800-299-8878 for a free consultation.
