TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Temperatures are rising and so is the number of commuters on Florida’s roads, especially vulnerable road users. This month, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) has partnered with transportation and law enforcement organizations throughout the state to remind motorists of their responsibility to share the road properly with bicyclists, motorcyclists, commercial drivers and all other roads. intermediate users, to keep our roads safe.
“On average, last year, there were nearly 280 crashes per week involving a motorcycle or bicycle in Florida, which really underscores the importance of staying alert for all road users,” said FLHSMV Executive Director Terry L. Rhodes. “While their mode of transportation may differ from a typical vehicle, motorcyclists and cyclists still have the right to share our roads and the right to reach their destination safely.”
Governor Ron DeSantis has proclaimed May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, recognizing the importance of reducing motorcycle fatalities in Florida. Motorcyclists and cyclists are vulnerable road users who can be difficult to see. By law, drivers must give bicyclists a minimum of three feet of clearance when riding alongside or passing them. Divers should never attempt to share the lane with a motorcycle; the motorcyclist has the right to the entire lane. Preliminary in 2020, there were 8,583 motorcycle crashes and 6,013 bicycle crashes in Florida that resulted in 2,687 serious bodily injuries and 668 deaths.
“All Floridians have a responsibility to drive safely and share the road properly,” said Colonel Gene S. Spaulding, director of the Florida Highway Patrol. “Please remember, this includes sharing the road with commercial motorized vehicles such as semi-trailers and staying out of CMV’s ‘No Zone’ blind spots.”
According to preliminary data from FLHSMV, there were 36,784 crashes involving a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) driver in 2020, resulting in 976 CMV driver serious bodily injuries and 317 CMV driver fatalities. Large trucks do not maneuver like passenger cars. Drivers are reminded to stay out of the “no-go zone,” the blind spots in front of, behind, and on both sides of commercial vehicles, and never at the rear door. Always pass on the left for maximum visibility and watch for wide turns.
“Florida is home to one of the strongest transportation systems in the country, offering multiple modes to accommodate the lifestyles and needs of our residents and visitors,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Kevin J. Thibault, PE “As we move into the summer months, more people will take advantage of Florida’s beautiful weather to ride bikes and motorcycles. We encourage motorists to always be cautious when behind the wheel and to respect their fellow riders. Safety is everyone’s job. “
“Trucks need about the length of two football fields to stop on the road,” said Florida Trucking Association President and CEO Ken Armstrong. “We encourage everyone to understand the ‘no-go zone’ and to maintain a safe distance between yourself and other drivers when driving to ensure that everyone gets home safely.”
“With our great climate, hundreds of miles of beaches and theme parks, Florida is a year-round tourist destination. As you travel our roads, remember to “share the road” with motorcycles, bicycles, and commercial vehicles so that everyone can get there alive. ” said Sheriff Bobby Schultz, president of the Florida Sheriffs Association. “On behalf of our Florida Sheriffs, I fully support the campaign Share the Road from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles in May. “
“The Florida Police Chiefs Association urges everyone to remember that Florida’s highways are designed for all drivers to use and enjoy, and this includes bicyclists and motorcyclists,” said Satellite Beach Police Chief Jeff Pearson, president of the Florida Police Chiefs Association. “Many law enforcement officers also ride bicycles and motorcycles in the performance of their duties, so we know the dangers these drivers can face. On behalf of more than 900 law enforcement executives across the state, we ask all Florida drivers to help us make our roads as safe and secure as possible! Share the Road! ”
“Space means safety when the road is properly shared,” said Matt Nasworthy, Florida Director of Public Affairs, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Drive with care and consideration, giving all types of road users the space they need.”
For more information about the campaign Share the Roadincluding safety tips and resources, visit the FLHSMV website. The public is encouraged to report dangerous and drunk drivers, motorcyclists and bicyclists by marking * FHP (* 347) the 911.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) provides highway safety and security through excellence in service, education, and compliance. Florida is leading the way to a safer Florida through the efficient and professional execution of its core mission: the issuance of driver’s licenses, vehicle tags and titles and the operation of the Florida Highway Patrol. For more information on FLHSMV and the services offered, visit https://www.flhsmv.gov, follow us on Twitter @FLHSMV, find us at Facebook or follow us on Instagram.
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