Day: May 7, 2021

With two fatalities reported in traffic crashes over the past week, Sarasota Police Department urges the public to keep safety tips in mind

by

Motorcyclist and pedestrian killed

Image from the Florida Department of Transportation and the Sarasota Police Department via Facebook

Over the past week, officers with the Sarasota Police Department Traffic Unit have investigated two traffic crashes involving fatalities, Public Information Officer Genevieve Judge noted in a May 3 report.

The first occurred on Friday, April 30l the second happened on Sunday, May 2, she added.

In the first incident, which was reported about 6:45 a.m., a four-door “sedan-type vehicle was traveling on South Tamiami Trail” and was attempting to turn onto Bee Ridge Road, she wrote. The vehicle started that turn in front of a motorcycle that also was traveling on South Tamiami Trail, Judge pointed out. The motorcycle rider, a 29-year-old Sarasota male, died as a result of injuries he sustained in the crash, Judge wrote. “He was not wearing a helmet.”

About noon on May 2, a 57-year-old male pedestrian with a Sarasota address was crossing U.S. 301 near 21st Street, but he was not in a crosswalk when he was struck by a truck, Judge reported. That pedestrian died as a result of the injuries he sustained in the crash, she added.

Both incidents remain under investigation by the Sarasota Police Department Traffic Unit, she noted.

Sarasota Police officers want to remind drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists to stay alert and drive safely, Judge stressed.  A few safety reminders follow, she noted:

PEDESTRIANS

  • Obey all traffic laws. If no sidewalks are present, walk against the direction of traffic so you can see oncoming vehicles.
  • Always use the crosswalk. Push the button so the “Walk” signal appears, enabling you to cross safely.
  • Be visible. Wear bright, reflective clothing and safety accessories.

DRIVERS

  • Avoid distractions while driving. Focus on the road.
  • Pass bicyclists safely. Allow at least 3 feet between your vehicle and a bicyclist.
  • Slow down. Speed is a major cause of all fatal crashes.
  • Buckle up.

BICYCLISTS

  • Always wear a helmet. Ride in the same direction of traffic on the street. Obey all traffic signs, signals and lane markings.
  • Yield to traffic when appropriate. It is better to yield than “be in the right” and risk injury.
  • Be visible. Position yourself in the lane so others can easily see you. Always use a headlight and a taillight at night.