Recent Collision and Growing Roadway Congestion Renew Bicycle Safety Concerns

Yesterday’s collision in Largo, Florida involving a sport utility vehicle (SUV) and a bicyclist has renewed concerns over bicycle safety and whether existing Florida traffic laws are adequate to protect cyclists traveling on the Tampa Bay area’s busy roadways.

John Angus Gladwin, 71, was critically injured when he was struck by a Toyota SUV driven by Robert L. Towner, who was attempting to pass Mr. Gladwin on Longwood Drive near Bryan Dairy Road.

Now that plans for a high-speed light rail in the Tampa Bay area have been scrapped by Florida Governor Rick Scott, congestion on I-275, I-75, and other major thoroughfares such as US 19 will continue to grow, increasing the risk of accidents and personal injuries involving motor vehicles and bicyclists.

The Florida Bicycle Association’s website contains useful information on Florida bicycle laws, safety, and other resources.