Bicyclists Beware: Cars May Be Unaware

Joe Saunders

Attorney
(866) 735-1102 Ext 340

0 CommentsPrint ArticleSubscribe

As the weather starts to turn cooler in Tampa Bay, more people will turn to their bikes for recreation and exercise. Pinellas County is fortunate to have the Pinellas Trail among other bike trails. Yet, those who choose an alternative route other than the bike trails may be choosing a perilous route. PInellas County roads are often overcrowded and many have an inadequate or no breakdown lane at all. This poses safety hazards even for the experienced biker. Even if all the safety gear is used such as helmets, mirrors, reflectors, and lights, cars are often too distracted and/or too impatient to be on the lookout for bicyclists. This problem is magnified in the pre-dawn hours or in the evening when bike lights become mandatory. Unfortunately, the safest alternative is to avoid sharing the road with the cars. Even though it may be inconvenient, I recommend staying on the Pinellas Trail or any other roadway designed exclusively for bikes and pedestrians. Pinellas County roads just aren't bike friendly.