Jacksonville’s Alarming Increase in Bicycle Fatalities

News Summary

Jacksonville faces a concerning rise in bicycle-related fatalities, with two cyclists tragically killed within a week. On Old Kings Road, a 36-year-old man was struck by an SUV, while the second incident on Pecan Park Road took the life of a man in his mid-30s. Safety advocates urge greater awareness among both cyclists and drivers to prevent further tragedies as the community grapples with these heartbreaking events.

Jacksonville’s Tragic Weeks for Bicyclists

Jacksonville is grappling with an alarming increase in bicycle-related tragedies, as two distinct incidents resulted in the untimely deaths of two cyclists within a short span of just one week. These occurrences have raised serious concerns about safety on our roads, prompting a need for heightened awareness among both cyclists and drivers.

A Heartbreaking Afternoon on Old Kings Road

This past Friday, a 36-year-old man tragically lost his life while riding his bicycle on Old Kings Road North. According to reports, the incident took place at approximately 3:24 p.m.. A 17-year-old girl was driving her SUV southbound on New Kings Road when, unfortunately, the cyclist crossed into her path. The resulting collision was devastating, with the front of the SUV hitting the bicyclist as he attempted to ride eastbound on Old Kings Road North.

Witnesses detail that the SUV came to a halt in the median after the accident, while the bicyclist was thrown onto the roadway, where he was pronounced dead at the scene. It’s worth noting that he was not wearing a helmet at the time of this tragic event. Thankfully, the driver and her three passengers, which included an 18-year-old man, a 15-year-old girl, and a 10-year-old boy, walked away uninjured, all secured by their seatbelts at the time.

A Second Blow to the Bicycling Community

6:37 a.m., there was another incident that added to the growing concern about cyclist safety in Jacksonville. A man in his mid-30s was involved in a collision on Pecan Park Road, tragically succumbing to injuries sustained in the crash with a Toyota sedan driven by a woman in her early-50s. First responders pronounced the victim deceased upon their arrival, marking another somber moment for the community.

The woman driving the Toyota showed no signs of impairment and has been cooperating with police as investigations continue. This incident represents not only a grave loss but also brings the yearly total for traffic fatalities in Duval County to 148, with 9 of those involving cyclists. The local police force is currently diving into the evidence to clarify the circumstances surrounding both tragic accidents.

Safety Measures and Awareness Needed

It is essential for drivers to recognize their responsibilities as well. Motorists should always be on the lookout for cyclists and obey traffic laws, creating a safer environment for everyone. Through a combined effort between cyclists and drivers, Jacksonville can strive to prevent further tragedies like those that have recently unfolded.

What Lies Ahead for Jacksonville Cyclists

Here’s to hoping for safer roads ahead in Jacksonville, as we extend our deepest sympathies to the families affected by these tragic circumstances.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Motorcyclist Airlifted to Hospital After Collision with SUV in St. Johns County
Jacksonville Faces Traffic Tragedies: Fatalities and Injuries
Tragic Series of Crashes on Interstate 95 in Jacksonville
Tragic Bicycle Accident Claims Life of 61-Year-Old in Jacksonville

Additional Resources

• WNCT: Bicycle Rider Taken to Hospital After Crash in Jacksonville
• WITN: Jacksonville Police Offer Safety Guidance Following Deadly Bicycle Crash
• First Coast News: Fatality Reported in Crash Involving Bicyclist
• Action News Jax: Traffic Alert – Accident with Injuries
• Jacksonville.com: 2 Teens Died in Separate Crashes in Jacksonville Area

Author: HERE Jacksonville