For a cyclist in Florida, the words “terrifying future” in relation to the sport of cycling are haunting and puzzling. From what we’ve all been reading, Florida is making tremendous strides in regard to cycling safety all throughout the Sunshine State.
Just last year, Florida circulated a newfound plan of action to increase safety and reduce the accident rate for cyclists. In fact, Florida even hired a number of staff members whose job is solely to concentrate on the interests of pedestrians and cyclists. This is all wonderful news, so what’s the problem?
The crux of the issue is that while Florida is paying attention to cyclists’ needs in theory, the economic model pays little attention to cyclists. In practice, Florida is all about growth and, more specifically, growth in regard to vehicles.
Florida’s population is growing at a rapid rate. Actually, Florida’s population is growing at a rate that is nearly twice that of the national rate. A rapid uptick in Florida’s population means that changes will need to take place.
Eventually, new roads will need to be built in order to connect these new suburbs to cities. Unfortunately for cyclists, the most cost-effective way of building these roads means that safety for pedestrians and cyclists takes a backseat.
Statistics prove time and time again that poor road design is amongst the most deadly and influential threats to cyclists. In Florida, road design has failed over and over, and it’s not looking any better in the future.
Quite simply, roads in Florida are designed to benefit cars, not pedestrians. Some roads lack a bike lane altogether. Even the roads that are constructed with bike lanes pose a risk for cyclists.
With wider traffic lanes, motorists are encouraged to drive faster and more recklessly. As the population rates continue to rise and the road designs remain stagnant, a recipe for cycling disaster will prevail.
As cyclists on the roads of Florida, every day presents a new risk and a new danger to consider. When will Florida wake up and realize that something has to change?
When will Florida’s roadways be built to accommodate drivers, cyclists/and pedestrians? The future seems grim, and this is frightening for cyclists and cycling advocates.
Daily Struggles for Cyclists on Florida’s Roads
Many roads in Florida lack dedicated bicycle infrastructure, making every ride a stressful gamble for bicyclists. On a two lane road with limited shoulder space, cyclists are forced into close encounters with fast-moving vehicles.
Drivers in Florida frequently do not yield to cyclists, and aggressive maneuvers often push riders dangerously close to a motor vehicle’s front wheel or into oncoming traffic.
Despite the dangers, cyclists are not legally required to stay on the shoulder, but narrow lanes and unsafe conditions often leave them feeling pressured to do so.
In such instances, the lack of planning results in severe risks, and areas like Punta Gorda highlight how Florida consistently ranks among the states with the highest bicycle fatality rates.
With few bike lanes and poorly maintained paths, many riders find themselves detouring onto sidewalks or dead-end routes, adding both frustration and danger to their journey.
Finding Safer Alternatives for Cycling in Florida
Because several miles on a busy highway can feel life-threatening on two wheels, riders often seek safer ways to navigate. Many turn to back roads or check Google Maps in search of a cycling-friendly route, but even those detours can be unpredictable.
Coastal areas, especially along the Gulf Coast or near Fort Myers, where many cyclists ride, provide little protection from speeding cars traveling in the same direction, and incidents of intoxicated driving around recreational zones make the roads even riskier.
In downtown St. Petersburg and across Central Florida, inconsistent infrastructure forces cyclists to make split-second decisions, sometimes riding on sidewalks or veering into unsafe lanes instead of being able to follow a designated trail to stay safe.
While choosing less-traveled roads may provide short-term relief, it does not address the long-term issue: Florida’s infrastructure is designed primarily for cars, not bicycles.
Until the state prioritizes safer cycling access, both novice and experienced riders will continue to feel bullied off the road and left without secure travel options.
What do you think about Florida’s current road design? Are the roads safe where you cycle most often? Share your opinions in the comment box.
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