Car/Bicycle Accident on Morse near Rio Grande

[gatherer47]

I just witnessed a horrific accident on Morse Blvd near Rio Grande.A person on a bicycle in the golf cart path was hit from behind by a car.I don't know if she survived.The worst thing I've ever seen in my life.Prayers to all involved.

[baileysdad]

What happened with that mini-van? Saw the firefighters cutting the top off. Worst one I have ever seen

[gatherer47]

The vehicle hit the cyclist,traveled across Morse onto grass,went another fifty to hundred yards and hit either embankment or tree or shrubbery.The poor victim stayed on hood of vehicle until the vehicle hit embankment and wasn't till then till she was thrown off-This is something I'll never erase from my mind-Prayers again to all.

[marianne237]

car on the golf cart path?

[renielarson]

A little over 2 hours ago my husband and I were driving south on Morse, a few blocks before Rio Grande, when we saw a bent bicycle on the side of the road, debris on the road, and an older couple just getting out of their car. They flagged us yelling for us to call 911. It was when we stopped and asked if they needed help the lady hysterically explained a bicyclist had been hit and was being carried down the road on top of the car.

At the time 911 answered my call, we came upon a horrific scene just yards north of Rio Grande. A light blue SUV, with a totally destroyed and smoking front end, was resting in the east culvert with an older man behind the wheel. Three people were already there and, I assume, had talked to him because they turned and walked away. To me, he appeared to be conscious but I'm not sure. Then I saw the bicyclist. A lady with brunette hair, wearing red shorts and a white top, lying face down and motionless on the grass. A man was crouched next to her. He was also very still, just staring at her. Other bystanders were running her way, but we kept traveling on as there were already many stopped cars and people on both sides of Morse.

My husband and I think there was probably a 2nd car involved, that we didn't notice, because the SUV was so heavily damaged and looked like it had been in a near head on collision with another vehicle. We really don't know and this is just speculation on our part. I certainly don't want to start any rumors so that is why having a 2nd car involved may not be the case...just what we think. As we approached Morse and 466, EMS was turning the corner headed toward the accident.

I'm writing this because I have been sitting here at home and have such a heavy heart and can't erase what I saw nor get it off my mind. I wish we had taken another route home.

In ending, I am asking for prayers for this lady and others involved with this accident. I would also appreciate any information anyone might have about the accident and the outcome. Feel free to pm me.

[gatherer47]

yes car was on golf cart path,also in all lanes of traffic on Morse-was going back and forth between both car lanes and golf cart lane

[CFrance]

Sounds like either a drunk or a medical occurrence. Prayers for all, especially that poor girl.

[TennDrifter]

Took this picture around 4pm on Morse Blvd next to Rio Grande. It appears there was also a Bicycle that was involved.... Details should be soon

http://i843.photobucket.com/albums/zz358/TennDrifter/Wreck.jpg (http://s843.photobucket.com/user/TennDrifter/media/Wreck.jpg.html)

[Moderator]

There were 3 threads started on this incident. We have merged them into 1 thread. Posts will appear chronologically. Thanks to all for your reports and positive thoughts for the victims.

Moderator

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

The MM path on Morse is completely off the road on the northern section of the road. The is becomes just a lane to the right of the roadway but on the roadway.

Did this happen where the MM path is part of the road or north of there?

[renielarson]

The MM path on Morse is completely off the road on the northern section of the road. The is becomes just a lane to the right of the roadway but on the roadway.

Did this happen where the MM path is part of the road or north of there?

There was a MM line on the road.

[graciegirl]

Thinking of all of you who witnessed this and sending prayers both for you and the victims.

[janmcn]

The Villages on-line news is reporting that the bicyclist is in critical condition. Both the cyclist and the driver were transported to the Ocala Regional Medical Center.

[renielarson]

The Villages on-line news is reporting that the bicyclist is in critical condition. Both the cyclist and the driver were transported to the Ocala Regional Medical Center.

Would you please post the link? I went to the site and didn't see the story. Thank you so much!

[CFrance]

Would you please post the link? I went to the site and didn't see the story. Thank you so much!
brightspot, TOTV will not allow any links to the online news to be posted. You'll have to google villages dash news.

[TheVillageChicken]

Would you please post the link? I went to the site and didn't see the story. Thank you so much!


There is more info in this thread than in the news story.

[CathyandJohn]

So sorry you had to witness this. We came upon it also and it just made both of us I'll. prayers to all involved. If anyone made it out alive it will be a true miracle. So very sorry.

[janmcn]

Would you please post the link? I went to the site and didn't see the story. Thank you so much!


Unable to post link on this forum. Go to their website and look on the right hand side. It's the first story under breaking news. As reported above, it's a very short two sentence article.

[renielarson]

brightspot, TOTV will not allow any links to the online news to be posted. You'll have to google villages dash news.

Thank you! I found it. I continue to cry about this and hope she pulls through.

[renielarson]

Unable to post link on this forum. Go to their website and look on the right hand side. It's the first story under breaking news. As reported above, it's a very short two sentence article.

Thank you. I found it!

[YouNeverKnow]

Thank you. I found it!
Here's the short article from the paper:
Bicyclist in critical condition following collision on Rio Grande Avenue
July 25, 2014 By Meta Minton Leave a Comment
A bicyclist and the driver of an automobile were both transported to Ocala Regional Medical Center following a collision after 1 p.m. Friday on Rio Grande Avenue in The Villages.
The bicyclist was said to be in critical condition.

[PJUCTH]

I have been riding a bike almost daily for 35 years. I always wear a helmet. I have hit my head and cracked my helmet on occasion. Been riding in the villages for eight years. I. have become increasingly afraid in the last year or two riding my bike here .I've tried different things. Riding early in the morning, later in the evening thought about getting a tricycle. I don't know if it would help but I pray this girl had a helmet on. I see so many people riding on the road with the cars and carts and no helmet. I often look at the people riding and the people driving their cars , and carts that sometimes appear to try and hit me on purpose and wonder if they have any respect for human life.theirs or mine . I had a man scream at me the other day that 'a a @$@&$ of a place to stop .when I stopped coming out of the tunnel where there is a stop sign to let him pass so that I could get up the power to get up the hill Some of you will know who I amI've been a pediatric nurse for 30 years some of that in the neurosurgery unit I've seen my share of accidents. This is just so sad and scary. Please be careful out there.

[kittygilchrist]

May The Lord comfort you who saw and angels watch over the victims...
How sad...

[renielarson]

Here's the short article from the paper:
Bicyclist in critical condition following collision on Rio Grande Avenue
July 25, 2014 By Meta Minton Leave a Comment
A bicyclist and the driver of an automobile were both transported to Ocala Regional Medical Center following a collision after 1 p.m. Friday on Rio Grande Avenue in The Villages.
The bicyclist was said to be in critical condition.

Sadly, the report is not accurate. The collision did not happen on Rio Grande. It happened on Morse. It did occur after 1 pm but it was actually after 2 pm. Accuracy is important.

[KathieI]

I'm sitting here in shock about this horrible accident and thinking I'm so glad I didn't witness it. Such an awful thing, those poor people. That car is destroyed and I wonder if we will ever find out the cause and correction that will need to be done to avoid this in the future.

Lately, I'm driving around much more during the day and I'm aghast at the street legal golf carts and bike riders riding along the main roads next to big SUV's (like mine) and other very large construction trucks, taking their lives in their hands and possibly becoming a victim in a terrible accident. Not me,,, I'm a 100% chicken, I'm in my SUV, driving the speed limit, avoid riding next to large trucks and stay far away from carts and bikes. I still don't get it, if there is a MM path (or whatever its called), WHY ride in the main road and take chances?? Maybe some one could enlighten me?

But in the meantime, I am saying many prayers for those people to hopefully recover in good form. Such a tragedy!!

[DougB]

I'm sitting here in shock about this horrible accident and thinking I'm so glad I didn't witness it. Such an awful thing, those poor people. That car is destroyed and I wonder if we will ever find out the cause and correction that will need to be done to avoid this in the future.

Lately, I'm driving around much more during the day and I'm aghast at the street legal golf carts and bike riders riding along the main roads next to big SUV's (like mine) and other very large construction trucks, taking their lives in their hands and possibly becoming a victim in a terrible accident. Not me,,, I'm a 100% chicken, I'm in my SUV, driving the speed limit, avoid riding next to large trucks and stay far away from carts and bikes. I still don't get it, if there is a MM path (or whatever its called), WHY ride in the main road and take chances?? Maybe some one could enlighten me?

But in the meantime, I am saying many prayers for those people to hopefully
recover in good form. Such a tragedy!!


Where this happened the MM path is part of the main road, only separated by a white line.

[KathieI]

Where this happened the MM path is part of the main road, only separated by a white line.

Yes, DougB, I know. I think its the corner where there are actually 3 lanes going north, one is for carts, one is for right turn onto Rio Grande and the 3rd is cars heading north. Some people have always felt this was confusing when it was put in, I never had a problem with it.

Doug, what I meant was, when there is a MM path separate, why would they ride on the main road and take chances?

[DougB]

Yes, DougB, I know. I think its the corner where there are actually 3 lanes going north, one is for carts, one is for right turn onto Rio Grande and the 3rd is cars heading north. Some people have always felt this was confusing when it was put in, I never had a problem with it.

Doug, what I meant was, when there is a MM path separate, why would they ride on the main road and take chances?


That whole section of Morse is very dangerous; you are correct, the Morse/Rio Grande light has a MM path between the right turn into onto Rio Grande and the straight lane going north

[CFrance]

I'm sitting here in shock about this horrible accident and thinking I'm so glad I didn't witness it. Such an awful thing, those poor people. That car is destroyed and I wonder if we will ever find out the cause and correction that will need to be done to avoid this in the future.

Lately, I'm driving around much more during the day and I'm aghast at the street legal golf carts and bike riders riding along the main roads next to big SUV's (like mine) and other very large construction trucks, taking their lives in their hands and possibly becoming a victim in a terrible accident. Not me,,, I'm a 100% chicken, I'm in my SUV, driving the speed limit, avoid riding next to large trucks and stay far away from carts and bikes. I still don't get it, if there is a MM path (or whatever its called), WHY ride in the main road and take chances?? Maybe some one could enlighten me?

But in the meantime, I am saying many prayers for those people to hopefully recover in good form. Such a tragedy!!
All I can say, Kathie, is that serious cyclers ride on the road. A day's exercise for them can be 40-50 miles, and speeds they obtain are faster than what golf carts can do legally. So they may consider riding on the MM paths to be too much of a hassle. It's legal for them to be on the road, although for the life of me, I don't understand why they take chances they do, especially around here with so many elderly drivers who may experience medical emergencies, distractedness, etc.

Maybe some bicyclists will offer other reasons.

My prayers go out to both of these people.

[perrjojo]

Yes, DougB, I know. I think its the corner where there are actually 3 lanes going north, one is for carts, one is for right turn onto Rio Grande and the 3rd is cars heading north. Some people have always felt this was confusing when it was put in, I never had a problem with it.

Doug, what I meant was, when there is a MM path separate, why would they ride on the main road and take chances?

Kathie, because those driving on the MM paths are just as inconsiderate and rude as many drivers on the rode. I haven't cycled in years but when I did my speed exceeded that of the MM paths. Serious cyclist are safer on the road and they have a legal right to be there. I know it makes car drivers nervous and/or irrateted to drive behind them but it is the law that they are allowed to be there.

[renielarson]

"...I still don't get it, if there is a MM path (or whatever its called), WHY ride in the main road and take chances?? Maybe some one could enlighten me?..." Although the bicyclist was riding on the main street, she was in the marked MM lane where she (and golf carts) are allowed to ride.

[Bosoxfan]

Kathie, because those driving on the MM paths are just as inconsiderate and rude as many drivers on the rode. I haven't cycled in years but when I did my speed exceeded that of the MM paths. Serious cyclist are safer on the road and they have a legal right to be there. I know it makes car drivers nervous and/or irrateted to drive behind them but it is the law that they are allowed to be there.

Although I agree with everything you've stated (as I'm a serious cycler) I don't know if things will ever get better until either motor vehicle drivers become more tolerant or are cited for their neglect of the law.Prayers for all those involved!

[CFrance]

Although I agree with everything you've stated (as I'm a serious cycler) I don't know if things will ever get better until either motor vehicle drivers become more tolerant or are cited for their neglect of the law.Prayers for all those involved!
Not to start another car/cycle argument, and I totally defend cyclists' right to the road, but you are conveniently forgetting about all the cyclists who ignore the rules of the road. It is not all the motorists' fault.

[Indydealmaker]

car on the golf cart path?

I am sure that the OP means golf cart lane. The other route for golf carts is the Multi-Modal Path.

[Jejuca]

As I drive around The Villages I find most drivers are polite but the ones that aren't both in the golf cart and the car are the rudest, most inconsiderate drivers I have ever encountered. Happily they are few and far between.
I thought the law in Florida is that you must give a bicyclist a 3 foot clearance when passing.
Too many people are still driving here when they should have given up their licenses long ago. I will never forget my father's in law doctor telling him that he could still drive after having a defibrillator implanted. Both my husband and I said absolutely not - if he was in such bad condition that he needed a defibrillator then he wasn't in any shape to drive safely. Maybe he would have been fine but we felt better safe than sorry.

[robertj1954]

We saw the aftermath of the accident (what the photo shows) on the way to dinner. Very tragic accident. Prayers for the victims.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Took this picture around 4pm on Morse Blvd next to Rio Grande. It appears there was also a Bicycle that was involved.... Details should be soon

http://i843.photobucket.com/albums/zz358/TennDrifter/Wreck.jpg (http://s843.photobucket.com/user/TennDrifter/media/Wreck.jpg.html)


That looks like the northbound side of Morse. Were the car and bicycle heading north?

[Village Kid 2]

We, too, came upon the accident just ahead of us on Morse as we turned right on Rio Grande at 3:00. There were multiple ambulances, fire engines, law enforcement vehicles with lights going.

When we returned around 5:45 and drove by the area going south on Morse, we saw a mangled bicycle on the right side of the road and a wrecker taking away the mangled blue van further down on the left and one police car directing traffic where the wrecker was.

There was quite a distance between the bicycle and the car. I can't even imagine how awful for all involved. Praying for everyone's recovery.

[renielarson]

That looks like the northbound side of Morse. Were the car and bicycle heading north?

The bicyclist and car were headed SOUTH, as stated in my original post.

[gatherer47]

The car and bicycle were both headed south.The accident happened about two hundred yards before the redlight at Rio Grande.The car with the woman on the hood traveled another hundred yards before hitting a tree or embankment and got turned facing north.It was at this point the cyclist was thrown off the hood of the vehicle.The driver of the vehicvle had been traveling on the golf cart path ,then the south bound car lane,then the north bound car lane[right at oncoming traffic]and then the golf cart lane again where it hit the bike.I saw the whole thing in the rear view mirror of my car.The point where there are a car lane,cart lane and turning right lane on Rio Grande had nothing to do with the accident.It happened going south two hundred yards before the intersection.

[renielarson]

I need to make a correction due to terms I have confused here. The bicyclist was in the marked golf cart lane cycling SOUTH on Morse. The golf cart lane is different than a MM path that is located off road with a barrier between the road and the path. She was on Morse and she was cycling SOUTH toward Rio Grande. She was on the road, but in her legal lane and that lane was marked with a solid line.

Got it? She was cycling in the legal street marked golf cart lane on Morse traveling SOUTH not too far NORTH of Rio Grande when she was hit.

[BettyDom]

Bicyclist in critical condition following collision.

[renielarson]

Sadly, the report is not accurate. The collision did not happen on Rio Grande. It happened on Morse. It did occur after 1 pm but it was actually after 2 pm. Accuracy is important.

July 25, 2014 Found this online.

A bicyclist and the driver of an automobile were both transported to Ocala Regional Medical Center following a collision after 1 p.m. Friday on Rio Grande Avenue in The Villages.
The bicyclist was said to be in critical condition.

Sorry you missed my earlier post.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

It sounds like after the car hit the woman on the bike, it crossed over to the northbound lane where it spun around and came to rest.

I certainly hope that the poor woman survives.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

I have to take some responsibility for the confusion here. I think I was the first one to mention a multi-modal path. At that point on Morse there is no multi-modal path. There is a golf cart / bicycle lane clearly marked off to the right of the road.

I was confused because I thought that this might have happened further north on Morse where there is a multi-modal path.

Sorry to have added to the confusion.

[renielarson]

What baffles me is how the SUV sustained the extreme damage, not only to the front end but, to the extent the occupant would have to be extricated. Was another vehicle involved?

[Halibut]

So terrible for the people involved. Seems like the car may have been traveling more than 35mph for that much damage.

Here's the street view (https://www.google.com/maps/@28.930594,-81.959102,3a,75y,60.76h,79.42t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sC5g9AB8WSe3Zv78xdqUrxw!2e0) of the area to see how the lanes are set up.

[getdul981]

[QUOTE=Halibut;913504]So terrible for the people involved. Seems like the car may have been traveling more than 35mph for that much damage./QUOTE]

And the speed limit there is only 30 MPH.

[rubicon]

The diamond lanes on Morse, Rio Grande and Delmar are too narrow for their intended purpose. It was stated that this vehicle roof was cut by rescuers following this accident. Even if this is correct the damage to this vehicle indicates speed greater than 30mph. It may be that the driver of the auto had a medical emergency or was not paying attention. We also do not know if the cyclist maintained position in the diamond lane or was on the southbound traveling lane.

I personally hate to take my cart on any of the streets i mentioned above because the tolerance for error is slime to none. This event was bound to happen and it will continue. I know a guy who had a car drive into his cart while making a right turn onto San Marino hurt him badly.

This accident prompted to remember some folks explaining that they consider it safer to cross over onto the diamond (golf) lane when making a turn. This accident illustrates my differing opinion on this method

Going north and approaching Rio Grande is another impossible traffic configuration with the outer lane for turns the middle lane for straight ahead movement and then the northbound traveling lane. I use this intersection often and always, always allow carts ahead of me to stay ahead so that I can visibly see their movement and better than 100 yards back begin looking in my right rear mirror to see if carts are approaching
This may seem like a small matter to some but I can't count the number of times I have seen cars dangerously cut off golf carts

My prayers go out to those involved in this terrible accident

[collie1228]

This horrific accident happened right in front of the entrance to our CYV neighborhood, Villa San Antonio. I drive my golf cart to the mail station every day on this route, and it gets scarier every day. The speed limit is 35, but I see cars going by me going at least 50 MPH every day, and at least twice week I witness a car going past me which strays into the golf cart lane and travels there with its wheels 1-2 feet inside the cart lane for several hundred yards. Frankly, it's happened so often that it's a miracle I haven't witnessed a bad accident there. I constantly check my mirrors, as someday I'm expecting to see an SUV bearing down on me in the cart lane at 50 MPH. So far I've been lucky, but need to rethink how I get to the mail station. I looked at the damaged vehicle yesterday and can't understand how it would be possible for a 35 MPH crash to result in so much damage. Either the guy was speeding or he had some kind of medical issue that caused him to speed up. I'm sure I'll be seeing a sheriff's deputy out there with the radar occasionally for the next couple of weeks, but then they will find more important places to watch. Please folks, slow down and pay attention to what you are doing behind the wheel.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

The diamond lanes on Morse, Rio Grande and Delmar are too narrow for their intended purpose. It was stated that this vehicle roof was cut by rescuers following this accident. Even if this is correct the damage to this vehicle indicates speed greater than 30mph.

I talk about this all the time. I don't think that Morse is quite as bad, but you can add Chula Vista to that list.

We use Rio Grand and Morse quite often to get to LSL. I would assume that these golf cart lanes were an afterthought. It probably didn't occur to the developer, 35 years ago, that there would be thousands of golf cart zipping around The Villages. It's obvious in the newer area such as Buena Vista the the infrastructure was designed with golf carts in mind. Every time I drive in that area, whether in my cart or my car, I think about, with all the money being spent on planting flowers and beautifying that park near the Paradise dog park (Which in my humble opinion was a complete waste of money) and all the hundreds of thousands of dollars spent on projects that don't really improve our lives, why isn't money being spent on such important projects as widening Rio Grande, Chula Vista and Del Mar and continuing the multi modal path on Morse all the way to 466 or just before it. These are very heavily traveled roads and they are really not safe.

This particular accident may not have been prevented by doing these things. As someone said it sound like the car driver may have had a medical emergency and there is really nothing that will prevent those kinds of things from happening. But, I've seen a couple of incidents where golf carts have been scraped by cars traveling along those roads.

A lot of times unsafe conditions exist and there's not much that can be done to improve them. But in this case the condition and answer are glaring.

[perrjojo]

Of course we are all just speculating at this point but it could be that the driver panicked and hit the acellarator rather than the brake.

[Boudicca]

Dear gatherer47 - My prayers are with you, (and the victims) as it must have been a terrible thing to witness.

[Abster]

Kathie, because those driving on the MM paths are just as inconsiderate and rude as many drivers on the rode. I haven't cycled in years but when I did my speed exceeded that of the MM paths. Serious cyclist are safer on the road and they have a legal right to be there. I know it makes car drivers nervous and/or irrateted to drive behind them but it is the law that they are allowed to be there. Many cyclists make me nervous and irritated because they often ride side by side - out of their path/lane and many seem to not know/care that they are to abide by the same laws as a driver - i.e., stop signs, stop lights. Many don't even yield at a stop sign. We live at the beach where there are many, many cyclists. Many pay ZERO attention to vehicles and think they own the road. I walk and ride against the traffic and yield to those following the law. But, I think being able to see what's coming your way is a lot safer, allowing you to make a quick move if necessary. Anyway, all of topic. I pray for this cyclist and all involved.

[perrjojo]

Many cyclists make me nervous and irritated because they often ride side by side - out of their path/lane and many seem to not know/care that they are to abide by the same laws as a driver - i.e., stop signs, stop lights. Many don't even yield at a stop sign. We live at the beach where there are many, many cyclists. Many pay ZERO attention to vehicles and think they own the road. I walk and ride against the traffic and yield to those following the law. But, I think being able to see what's coming your way is a lot safer, allowing you to make a quick move if necessary. Anyway, all of topic. I pray for this cyclist and all involved.

Just as there are inconsiderate drivers, there are inconsiderate cyclist. Many ride side by side because they feel safer against aggressive drivers. As to thinking they own the road, well they do have just as much right to be there as vehicles. If you ride your bicycle against the flow of traffic, you are breaking the law.

[CFrance]

Just as there are inconsiderate drivers, there are inconsiderate cyclist. Many ride side by side because they feel safer against aggressive drivers. As to thinking they own the road, well they do have just as much right to be there as vehicles. If you ride your bicycle against the flow of traffic, you are breaking the law.
Riding side by side is a safety measure that many cyclists use. Perfectly legal... It is their right by law to take up the whole lane. Another faction feels that cycling close to the center line is another safety measure, especially for a single cycler. Many cyclists riding over to the right have been sideswiped by cars whose drivers aren't paying attention or who become irritated because a bicycle is on the road.

I am not a cyclist, but I respect those who are, and their rights. I do wish, however, that they would have to register their bicycles and have legible license plates like cars do so they could be identified when they blatantly disregard the traffic laws.

[TheVillageChicken]

Riding side by side is a safety measure that many cyclists use. Perfectly legal... It is their right by law to take up the whole lane.

From the statute


Persons riding bicycles upon a roadway may not ride more than two abreast except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles. Persons riding two abreast may not impede traffic when traveling at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing and shall ride within a single lane.

[graciegirl]

Riding side by side is a safety measure that many cyclists use. Perfectly legal... It is their right by law to take up the whole lane. Another faction feels that cycling close to the center line is another safety measure, especially for a single cycler. Many cyclists riding over to the right have been sideswiped by cars whose drivers aren't paying attention or who become irritated because a bicycle is on the road.

I am not a cyclist, but I respect those who are, and their rights. I do wish, however, that they would have to register their bicycles and have legible license plates like cars do so they could be identified when they blatantly disregard the traffic laws.

Good idea and golf carts too.

[CFrance]

From the statute


Persons riding bicycles upon a roadway may not ride more than two abreast except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles. Persons riding two abreast may not impede traffic when traveling at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing and shall ride within a single lane.
Two abreast is side by side and legal. They can move over if they're not doing the speed limit. If they're doing the speed limit, which many serious cyclists can do easily, they have every right.

[Abster]

Just as there are inconsiderate drivers, there are inconsiderate cyclist. Many ride side by side because they feel safer against aggressive drivers. As to thinking they own the road, well they do have just as much right to be there as vehicles. If you ride your bicycle against the flow of traffic, you are breaking the law. Yes, I am breaking the law and a lot safer for it. I see more and more people doing the same. Years ago, the law was actually to ride against traffic. Not sure why it changed.

[CFrance]

Yes, I am breaking the law and a lot safer for it. I see more and more people doing the same. Years ago, the law was actually to ride against traffic. Not sure why it changed.
It was never the law where we came from up north. Cyclists always had to obey traffic laws in order to claim their right to the road, and that included riding with the flow of traffic. Where was it lawful to do that? You may feel safer, but you are creating a hazard for everyone else on the road. This is the kind of arrogance that ticks motorists off. You have no right to break the laws any more than a motorist does.

[rubicon]

As a "get to the store" kind of guy these are the facts that have to be dealt with by officials
Many of the highways and streets such as Morse, Rio Grande, Delmar, etc in TV due to increases in traffic along with trying to serve the safety needs of auto and cart drivers, and bicyclists have exacerbated these already poorly designed highways. There simply is not enough room and any movement and in areas such as at the intersection of Morse and Rio Grande too many distractions, one way or another this spells danger. This is complicated by the fact that we have people from all over the world, many of them seasonal residents that are use to driving conditions/situation in their home states/countries Example in many metro areas traffic is a challenge to your driving acumen, use to the rythmn of their local traffic and as they say in those areas making your move. Well TV roads are not made to make your move, have a different rythmn causing many of these folks to become impatient, these same folks also have that attitude on the multi-modal paths. Now add to that this very high homogenous population of people who are not as fast on the trigger as they use to be and well...we have the perfect storm.

As a side bar without the gates and LOE it would be worse.

[gatherer47]

For the fourth time here,I SAW this accident with my own eyes.The driver of the car was driving in the golf car lane,then in the right hand lane with other cars,then he moved over and was driving head on into traffic heading north.He then weaved back into the golf cart path where he from behind hit the cyclist.She was doing nothing wrong.She never knew this vehicle was approaching her from behind.The driver of the car would go slow,then speed up,and then slow and then fast.The key is he was veering from lane to lane continually on Morse for probably at least a mile.

[NotGolfer]

For the fourth time here,I SAW this accident with my own eyes.The driver of the car was driving in the golf car lane,then in the right hand lane with other cars,then he moved over and was driving head on into traffic heading north.He then weaved back into the golf cart path where he from behind hit the cyclist.She was doing nothing wrong.She never knew this vehicle was approaching her from behind.The driver of the car would go slow,then speed up,and then slow and then fast.The key is he was veering from lane to lane continually on Morse for probably at least a mile.

SCAREY!!! There could be any number of reasons for that guy to be driving that way...a medical event, medications, too old to drive, trying to text on his phone, alcohol. It doesn't matter "the why"....what does matter is this was a horrific accident. Praying for the both of them and their families and ALL who are affected by this event!!

[CFrance]

As a "get to the store" kind of guy these are the facts that have to be dealt with by officials
Many of the highways and streets such as Morse, Rio Grande, Delmar, etc in TV due to increases in traffic along with trying to serve the safety needs of auto and cart drivers, and bicyclists have exacerbated these already poorly designed highways. There simply is not enough room and any movement and in areas such as at the intersection of Morse and Rio Grande too many distractions, one way or another this spells danger. This is complicated by the fact that we have people from all over the world, many of them seasonal residents that are use to driving conditions/situation in their home states/countries Example in many metro areas traffic is a challenge to your driving acumen, use to the rythmn of their local traffic and as they say in those areas making your move. Well TV roads are not made to make your move, have a different rythmn causing many of these folks to become impatient, these same folks also have that attitude on the multi-modal paths. Now add to that this very high homogenous population of people who are not as fast on the trigger as they use to be and well...we have the perfect storm.

As a side bar without the gates and LOE it would be worse.
Bingo.

Having learned to drive in a good-sized city with traffic jams and ancient, narrow city streets, then moving to NYC area, I know the "making your move" issue. In NJ & NYC, I found the drivers to be assertive, know where they wanted to go and how to get it done efficiently so as not to impede the flow of traffic. Then moving to West MI was an eye opener. People driving down the interstate slowly in the passing lane, sitting forever when the lights turned greet, etc. etc.

You have to change your mindset here in TV and allow for differences in driving habits. I think the big city drivers need to slow down and realize that they don't need to drive so assertively, and the country drivers need to speed up a little and be more alert so as to not impede the flow of traffic. Unfortunately, it's probably not going to happen in our lifetime.

[CFrance]

For the fourth time here,I SAW this accident with my own eyes.The driver of the car was driving in the golf car lane,then in the right hand lane with other cars,then he moved over and was driving head on into traffic heading north.He then weaved back into the golf cart path where he from behind hit the cyclist.She was doing nothing wrong.She never knew this vehicle was approaching her from behind.The driver of the car would go slow,then speed up,and then slow and then fast.The key is he was veering from lane to lane continually on Morse for probably at least a mile.
Gatherer, I don't think anybody said or even thinks it was in any way the cyclist's fault. We just kinda got off topic a bit about cycling. There had to be something going on with that driver, like another poster said--alcohol or medications or too old to be driving.

I'm sorry you had to witness this. Praying for recovery for both of them.

[rubicon]

Bingo.

Having learned to drive in a good-sized city with traffic jams and ancient, narrow city streets, then moving to NYC area, I know the "making your move" issue. In NJ & NYC, I found the drivers to be assertive, know where they wanted to go and how to get it done efficiently so as not to impede the flow of traffic. Then moving to West MI was an eye opener. People driving down the interstate slowly in the passing lane, sitting forever when the lights turned greet, etc. etc.

You have to change your mindset here in TV and allow for differences in driving habits. I think the big city drivers need to slow down and realize that they don't need to drive so assertively, and the country drivers need to speed up a little and be more alert so as to not impede the flow of traffic. Unfortunately, it's probably not going to happen in our lifetime.

precisely. Based on the eye witnesses account the auto driver appeared impatient based on the side to side movements he made and supported by the amount of damage that would indicate speed above 35mph. Perhaps the speed up was a result of the impact with the cyclist.

In my view if you want to cycle around here join a spinning class. I know I know its a different kind of ride

[Abster]

It was never the law where we came from up north. Cyclists always had to obey traffic laws in order to claim their right to the road, and that included riding with the flow of traffic. Where was it lawful to do that? You may feel safer, but you are creating a hazard for everyone else on the road. This is the kind of arrogance that ticks motorists off. You have no right to break the laws any more than a motorist does. I'm from Virginia. I am safer and not interfering with cars, cyclists or walkers. We have sidewalks and bike baths and both sides. I can see (for quite a distance) cars, cyclists and pedestrians. I also see several LE officers each day. They've never said a word. I don't ride my bike when at The Villages. I see too many people that shouldn't be driving - anything.

[graciegirl]

For the fourth time here,I SAW this accident with my own eyes.The driver of the car was driving in the golf car lane,then in the right hand lane with other cars,then he moved over and was driving head on into traffic heading north.He then weaved back into the golf cart path where he from behind hit the cyclist.She was doing nothing wrong.She never knew this vehicle was approaching her from behind.The driver of the car would go slow,then speed up,and then slow and then fast.The key is he was veering from lane to lane continually on Morse for probably at least a mile.


I feel so bad for you. I wonder if he was sick or under the influence?

[Bosoxfan]

O.K. let me say I was hoping this wouldn't turn into a discussion about why was this poor woman cycling on a road that's scary & that any sane person wouldn't be. Let me tell you all from personal experience how I came to be one of the cyclists in the villages that feel it's safer then the mm paths. First when I started back some 5 years ago pedaling in the villages I started out on the mm paths but soon found out that golf cart drivers didn't have much patience and voiced it loudly as they passed me in a very unsafe manor. Next I started out pedaling on the roads but just on the shoulder. This was an accident waiting to happen. As an example I had just crossed 466 on Buena Vista south when a landscape trailer came within a foot of knocking me off my bike . I caught up to them at the Belvedere gate and asked them why they had to cut it so close & his response was the car in the left lane wouldn't let him in. I asked him if he had brakes & that maybe if he used them to slow down then he might have been able to get in the left lane when he had a chance. He just shrugged as if to say he didn't have time to slow down.Then there's the folks that feel the right lane is the only lane that exists on Buena Vista and Morse south of 466. So now I pedal mainly on these roads and take the whole right lane leaving the drivers of motor vehicles no choice then to slow down & go around me.Sorry if it's an inconvenience for you all that are in such a hurry but now I feel much safer because I can control how close someone is to me when they're passing. I do get honked at and cussed at but this is the only option I've found to be safe out there. Let's all share the road!!

[CFrance]

I'm from Virginia. I am safer and not interfering with cars, cyclists or walkers. We have sidewalks and bike baths and both sides. I can see (for quite a distance) cars, cyclists and pedestrians. I also see several LE officers each day. They've never said a word. I don't ride my bike when at The Villages. I see too many people that shouldn't be driving - anything.
It is very disconcerting to me as a driver to see someone coming down the street toward me on a bicycle. There is a blonde woman around the Tamarind Grove area that does this frequently. Someone is going to hit her eventually. You may think it's okay because the traffic cops don't stop you, but they very seldom stop any cyclists. They have stated that they have neither the time nor the resources to go after cyclists.

But you can be sure if you are in an accident and riding on the wrong side of the road, the fault will be yours. You are putting motorists in danger.

[Bruiser1]

[FONT=Comic Sans MS]I'm sitting here in shock about this horrible accident and thinking I'm so glad I didn't witness it. Such an awful thing, those poor people. That car is destroyed and I wonder if we will ever find out the cause and correction that will need to be done to avoid this in the future.

Lately, I'm driving around much more during the day and I'm aghast at the street legal golf carts and bike riders riding along the main roads next to big SUV's (like mine) and other very large construction trucks, taking their lives in their hands and possibly becoming a victim in a terrible accident. Not me,,, I'm a 100% chicken, I'm in my SUV, driving the speed limit, avoid riding next to large trucks and stay far away from carts and bikes. I still don't get it, if there is a MM path (or whatever its called), WHY ride in the main road and take chances?? Maybe some one could enlighten me?

But in the meantime, I am saying many prayers for those people to hopefully recover in good form. Such a tragedy!![/F ONT]is

At this location there isn't a (separated) multi modal lane. Even worse as you go south toward 466 you must cross the lane into on coming traffic and HOPE the traffic allows you to cross. :22yikes:

[blueash]

I'm from Virginia. I am safer and not interfering with cars, cyclists or walkers. We have sidewalks and bike baths and both sides. I can see (for quite a distance) cars, cyclists and pedestrians. I also see several LE officers each day. They've never said a word. I don't ride my bike when at The Villages. I see too many people that shouldn't be driving - anything.

You seem to be making stuff up to fit your opinion. Here is a reference from 1977 looking at the causes of auto/bike accidents. It very clearly (p229) states
"Riding facing traffic is presently unlawful throughout the entire United States"

A study of bicycle/motor-vehicle accidents: identification of problem types ... - Kenneth D. Cross, Gary Fisher, Anacapa Sciences, inc, United States. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration - Google Books (http://books.google.com/books?id=fvNF7tPhfeMC&pg=PA223&lpg=PA223&dq=riding+bicycle+facing+traffic&source=bl&ots=3EGZRhMgyL&sig=EPlyE9fd8YT8G4tUUVzQKKJdPJk&hl=en&sa=X&ei=k97TU5jGEYGtyATy6oHoBQ&ved=0CEUQ6AEwBjgK#v=onepage&q=riding%20bicycle%20facing%20traffic&f=false)

Perhaps you can find an older link showing where it ever was the law that bikes should ride facing traffic.

Here is a link to Floridabicycle.org
http://www.floridabicycle.org/resources/pdfs/PEGLEG2008_7-31-08web.pdf
in which it states than in auto/bike accidents 70% of the time the bicyclist was in violation of a law whereas in 45% it was the auto. Further it states, contrary to your assertion, that
􀁌􀀀A cyclist is safer riding with traffic than
facing it.
A cyclist who rides facing oncoming traffic increases
his risk of being hit by a motorist by two to four
times.

[red tail]

two thirds of the stuff on here is hogwash....people rambling and praying

[graciegirl]

two thirds of the stuff on here is hogwash....people rambling and praying



I guess there are worse things than rambling and praying. I think I will continue.

[kittygilchrist]

two thirds of the stuff on here is hogwash....people rambling and praying

Worse things, GG?..some post hateful comments that add to our sense of pain. Sad.

[Ruthtomnorma3]

Thanks to all who have shared its horrific accident event...
A reminder for us ALL to be aware of our surroundings,
obey ALL rules
ALL stay off cell phones. SINCE .........
WE All WANT TO ENJOY THE VILLAGES LIFE STYLE FOR A LONGER TIME.....
Yes , this may have been a medical issue ; hope to get a follow-up story.
Still a reminder to do our part...

Hopefully the police read these threads to get our well noted "problems " we observe on the daily trips taken. Then THEY can correct the issues.

Lastly,I know the folks who witnessed it need our thoughts and prayers along with the victims ..feel free to vent your thoughts out to us...I will" shoulder" them...
Blessings for this forum.

[Taltarzac725]

Dealing with trauma. Tips on how to recover. (http://www.professional-counselling.com/dealing-with-trauma.html#.U9PwU_ldWXY)

http://www.professional-counselling.com/how-to-deal-with-trauma.html#.U9PwzvldWXY

This may of interest to those who saw this horrific accident.

[CFrance]

Dealing with trauma. Tips on how to recover. (http://www.professional-counselling.com/dealing-with-trauma.html#.U9PwU_ldWXY)

This may of interest to those who saw this horrific accident.
Tal, you are a kindhearted, intelligent person who's very good at supplying helpful links on so many subjects. Must be your library/research background.

[CFrance]

two thirds of the stuff on here is hogwash....people rambling and praying
Then quit reading the thread.

[Taltarzac725]

Tal, you are a kindhearted, intelligent person who's very good at supplying helpful links on so many subjects. Must be your library/research background.

I always try to empathize with what others are going through. I have gone past some terrible accidents during all my driving so I can relate. Many of these were on US 19 in the Tarpon Springs/Palm Harbor/Clearwater area. I thankfully though never saw one happen nor been in any vehicular accident worse than a fender bender. Knock on wood!

There are some really nasty librarians though so I am not sure it is the librarianship training. There are probably a lot more nice ones however.

[asianthree]

Just saw the auto picture. That's a lot of damage for hitting a bike. Car looks like it rolled more than once..

[EnglishJW]

As someone new to TV, there are some very useful pieces of information in this discussion. I will personally try to be more attentive and more considerate when traveling in TV no matter how I am getting around. Unfortunately, accidents will happen. Hopefully we can all do our part to keep them at a minimum.

[TVMayor]

This is from the online paper.
Bicyclist in critical condition following collision on Rio Grande Avenue
A bicyclist and the driver of an SUV were both airlifted to Ocala Regional Medical Center following a collision after 2 p.m. Friday on Rio Grande Avenue at Morse Boulevard in The Villages.

The bicyclist, a woman, was said to be in critical condition.

The driver of the SUV, a man, apparently lost control of the vehicle, struck the bicyclist and then the SUV hit a tree.

The bicyclist was thrown a considerable distance after being hit by the vehicle. The driver of the SUV had to be extricated by Villages Public Safety personnel.

The accident is under the investigation of the Florida Highway Patrol. At this time, the accident report is incomplete.

[TVMayor]

The car and bicycle were both headed south.The accident happened about two hundred yards before the redlight at Rio Grande.The car with the woman on the hood traveled another hundred yards before hitting a tree or embankment and got turned facing north.It was at this point the cyclist was thrown off the hood of the vehicle.The driver of the vehicvle had been traveling on the golf cart path ,then the south bound car lane,then the north bound car lane[right at oncoming traffic]and then the golf cart lane again where it hit the bike.I saw the whole thing in the rear view mirror of my car.The point where there are a car lane,cart lane and turning right lane on Rio Grande had nothing to do with the accident.It happened going south two hundred yards before the intersection.
The Highway Patrol is investigating this accident and after reading your post I would think the HYP would want to talk to you. Please be involved for the sake of the bike rider.

[Chazz]

Yes, I am breaking the law and a lot safer for it. I see more and more people doing the same. Years ago, the law was actually to ride against traffic. Not sure why it changed.

If that is what you are actually doing, you are creating a very dangerous situation for yourself and for those cyclists who are following the law by traveling in the proper direction. You could force other cyclists to have to ditch their bikes to avoid hitting you. Worse, you might get hit into oncoming vehicle traffic, with tragic results. I am glad that you haven't been injured, yet, and assume you haven't caused the same to others, but I sincerely hope you reconsider your riding direction.

[Abster]

If that is what you are actually doing, you are creating a very dangerous situation for yourself and for those cyclists who are following the law by traveling in the proper direction. You could force other cyclists to have to ditch their bikes to avoid hitting you. Worse, you might get hit into oncoming vehicle traffic, with tragic results. I am glad that you haven't been injured, yet, and assume you haven't caused the same to others, but I sincerely hope you reconsider your riding direction. I'm not going to argue or attack anyone. I am not near any cars, bikes or pedestrians. You guys need to chill. You get too emotional over some comments.

[graciegirl]

I'm not going to argue or attack anyone. I am not near any cars, bikes or pedestrians. You guys need to chill. You get too emotional over some comments.


Being stubborn in the face of such good advice is very worrying. This practice is not only dangerous to you but to others. A variety of qualified people including a physician have urged strongly that riding a bicycle against traffic is very dangerous.

Please reconsider your stance.

[perrjojo]

Being stubborn in the face of such good advice is very worrying. This practice is not only dangerous to you but to others. A variety of qualified people including a physician have urged strongly that riding a bicycle against traffic is very dangerous.

Please reconsider your stance.
:agree:
I've always heard...would you rather be right or would you rather be happy? In this instance I would advise...would younrather be right or would you rather be ALIVE? There is a reason you should ride WITH traffic. When you walk, FACE traffic. I think we all learned that in elementary school
Let's not forget the reason for this thread...a cyclist, minding her own business was critically injured. The driver of the car was injured as well. We don't know why this happened. Be careful out there.

[red tail]

you are missing absters point. because the car hit her from behind ab feels like its safer to be able to see the traffic rather than it sneaking up behind.

[buggyone]

:
Let's not forget the reason for this thread...a cyclist, minding her own business was critically injured. The driver of the car was injured as well. We don't know why this happened. Be careful out there.

As is stated, we do not know WHY this happened. Was the cyclist minding her own business or possibly gotten in the path of the car?

[EnglishJW]

you are missing absters point. because the car hit her from behind ab feels like its safer to be able to see the traffic rather than it sneaking up behind.

My wife, son and I all ride albeit casually. We ride with traffic and in single file. Each of us has a mirror on either our bike or helmet. By paying attention. we should be able to avoid cars (that are also noisy) from "sneaking up behind."

[CFrance]

you are missing absters point. because the car hit her from behind ab feels like its safer to be able to see the traffic rather than it sneaking up behind.
Maybe safer for ab, but creating unsafe environment for others, and breaking the law. The law is written for the safety of all, not just one person. Ignore it, and you endanger others. Very self-centered attitude. And ab's accusing us of needing to chill out and being too emotional is a ridiculous statement.

But I suppose the best defense is a good offense.

[DonH57]

A truly sad situation. Hoping a full recovery for all. Morse blvd is a very dangerous road due to many factors. I truly wished there was a separate multi use path all the down the road to the tunnel under 466. Hope all of us whether walking, cycling, carting, and motoring start looking out for each other on the road.

[graciegirl]

As is stated, we do not know WHY this happened. Was the cyclist minding her own business or possibly gotten in the path of the car?


Buggy, read Challenger's later statement that the car was speeding up and slowing down, hit her from behind in the cart path, she was on the roof until he smashed into something where she was thrown a far way. The driver of the van went the wrong direction on Morse and crossed all lanes of traffic. The speeding up and slowing down was before he hit the cyclist.

One can only guess. He had to be cut out of the van. Both Challenger and Brightspot witnessed this and are having a very hard time.

[Deseylou]

Was always taught that bicycles are a mode of transportation and therefore should obey all traffic laws
Ride with traffic
Stop lights
Stop signs
Walk facing traffic
I am sorry this happened and will say prayers for all
Debbie

[gatherer47]

buggyone-I SAW this accident-the cyclist did NOT get in the way of the car.She was driving correctly in the golf cart lane.The car was in the golf car path both before he hit her and then when he hit her.In between he was in both car lanes including driving headfirst toward traffic going north.Luckily at that time no cars were in the lane going north.He would speed up,slow down,speed up,etc.The cyclist WAS MINDING HER OWN business.

[buggyone]

buggyone-I SAW this accident-the cyclist did NOT get in the way of the car.She was driving correctly in the golf cart lane.The car was in the golf car path both before he hit her and then when he hit her.In between he was in both car lanes including driving headfirst toward traffic going north.Luckily at that time no cars were in the lane going north.He would speed up,slow down,speed up,etc.The cyclist WAS MINDING HER OWN business.

Sure sounds as though the car driver had some bad issue going on. Stroke or something?

[Allegiance]

buggyone-I SAW this accident-the cyclist did NOT get in the way of the car.She was driving correctly in the golf cart lane.The car was in the golf car path both before he hit her and then when he hit her.In between he was in both car lanes including driving headfirst toward traffic going north.Luckily at that time no cars were in the lane going north.He would speed up,slow down,speed up,etc.The cyclist WAS MINDING HER OWN business.

Speeding up and slowing down with someone on your hood?????

[CFrance]

Speeding up and slowing down with someone on your hood?????
We may never know, but from the description of the erratic driving, it sure does sound like a stroke or some other medical problem, like diabetic shock or something like that.

[patfla06]

I hope he was not driving drunk.
Prayers being said for all including those who witnessed it.

[gatherer47]

Allegiance-the speeding up and slowing up was before he hit the cyclist.It was while he was weaving in and out of all lanes.

[gabriellaels]

The driver had a diabetic episode and went into a coma.
The bicyclist is alive as well is the driver. This is just a terrible situation and no serious allegations need to be made. How dare you all say it was either ones fault when noone knows what happened.

[graciegirl]

The driver had a diabetic episode and went into a coma.
The bicyclist is alive as well is the driver. This is just a terrible situation and no serious allegations need to be made. How dare you all say it was either ones fault when noone knows what happened.

I am guessing that the driver who hit the cyclist is someone you know. People tend to speculate when something is beyond comprehension and very awful to think about.

Can you tell us more? People do care.

[kittygilchrist]

The driver had a diabetic episode and went into a coma.
The bicyclist is alive as well is the driver. This is just a terrible situation and no serious allegations need to be made. How dare you all say it was either ones fault when noone knows what happened.

I am thankful for the many prayers that have been answered and will keep praying for healing for both.
Your anger is understandable and well stated.

[TVMayor]

The driver had a diabetic episode and went into a coma.
The bicyclist is alive as well is the driver. This is just a terrible situation and no serious allegations need to be made. How dare you all say it was either ones fault when noone knows what happened.
It surprises me that a diabetic patient would not have a 30 second warning prior to a diabetic episode, but then I am not a doctor. But if I was he would not be allowed to drive.

[gabriellaels]

The driver is my grandfather. He is the sweetest man alive, very independant and healthy and just happens to be VERY diabetic. My family and I appreciate all of the prayers and are praying nonstop for the poor woman. Unfortunately the hospital will not give us any information regarding her. He had a diabetic episode, hit a telephone pole, hit her and then hit a tree. He was not drunk, and I bet she was not breaking any laws. This is a terrible tragedy, and once he is awake will be destroyed to find out he has caused so much damage to another being. He has broken all of his ribs, his leg, his chest cavity is shattered and his lungs collasped. We are turning to God to lead us through this terrible time. Thank you for your kindness, and I can only hope people will think twice before making such harsh allegations against people you do not know.

[gabriellaels]

He's a 76 year old man. Who still works everyday. Is fully capable and functioning, what would the 30 seconds have done if he went into shock? How can you blame someone for having a seizure, heart attack or DIA while driving? You can't. It's a TERRIBLE situation, but it is noones fault.

[Barefoot]

The driver is my grandfather. He is the sweetest man alive, very independant and healthy and just happens to be VERY diabetic. My family and I appreciate all of the prayers and are praying nonstop for the poor woman. Unfortunately the hospital will not give us any information regarding her. He had a diabetic episode, hit a telephone pole, hit her and then hit a tree. He was not drunk, and I bet she was not breaking any laws. This is a terrible tragedy, and once he is awake will be destroyed to find out he has caused so much damage to another being. He has broken all of his ribs, his leg, his chest cavity is shattered and his lungs collasped. We are turning to God to lead us through this terrible time. Thank you for your kindness, and I can only hope people will think twice before making such harsh allegations against people you do not know.

Gabriellaels, please tell your grandfather that many of us are saying prayers for him and for the woman on the bike. It's very sad. He is lucky to have a granddaughter like you.

[gatherer47]

prayers go out to your grandfather!

[Polar Bear]

It's just such a sad, unfortunate happening. Nothing but innocent victims. Prayers for everyone involved.

[renielarson]

The driver is my grandfather. He is the sweetest man alive, very independant and healthy and just happens to be VERY diabetic. My family and I appreciate all of the prayers and are praying nonstop for the poor woman. Unfortunately the hospital will not give us any information regarding her. He had a diabetic episode, hit a telephone pole, hit her and then hit a tree. He was not drunk, and I bet she was not breaking any laws. This is a terrible tragedy, and once he is awake will be destroyed to find out he has caused so much damage to another being. He has broken all of his ribs, his leg, his chest cavity is shattered and his lungs collasped. We are turning to God to lead us through this terrible time. Thank you for your kindness, and I can only hope people will think twice before making such harsh allegations against people you do not know.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your post. Your grandfather and the bicyclist have been on my mind since the time I passed by the accident scene. To know the circumstances related to this tragedy helps me rest a little easier. I will continue to pray for both hoping for full recoveries and I am so sorry this happened.

[asianthree]

He's a 76 year old man. Who still works everyday. Is fully capable and functioning, what would the 30 seconds have done if he went into shock? How can you blame someone for having a seizure, heart attack or DIA while driving? You can't. It's a TERRIBLE situation, but it is noones fault.

Thoughts go to you and your family. You are so right for those who have been with a person having a seizure, stroke, mi, diabetic or hypoglycemic episode there is no control over ones mind or actions. Please take with you the caring thoughts and prayers of the majority of the posts and ignore those who don't have kind words to say.

[zonerboy]

When such a terrible accident occurs it is only natural to wonder how it could have occurred. Even partial eye witness accounts posted here lead to questions. Why was the path of the car so erratic just prior to the accident? Why did it continue to travel so far after striking the cyclist? How did such extreme damage to the vehicle occur? Physical or mental impairment of the driver, some type of sudden medical event, possible intoxication....these are all reasonable speculations that were made by posters here.
I would take them as attempts at understanding rather than as harsh judgements or blame placing. Most commenters here are kind hearted and have offered prayers for both of the injured and their families. As do I.
That being said, just as persons susceptible to certain sudden heart arrythmias, or persons with certain seizure disorders may have their driving privileges restricted, perhaps very, very brittle diabetics should consider this as well. No matter how wonderful a person they might be.

[Taltarzac725]

The driver is my grandfather. He is the sweetest man alive, very independant and healthy and just happens to be VERY diabetic. My family and I appreciate all of the prayers and are praying nonstop for the poor woman. Unfortunately the hospital will not give us any information regarding her. He had a diabetic episode, hit a telephone pole, hit her and then hit a tree. He was not drunk, and I bet she was not breaking any laws. This is a terrible tragedy, and once he is awake will be destroyed to find out he has caused so much damage to another being. He has broken all of his ribs, his leg, his chest cavity is shattered and his lungs collasped. We are turning to God to lead us through this terrible time. Thank you for your kindness, and I can only hope people will think twice before making such harsh allegations against people you do not know.

Prayers for your family as well as the bicyclist and hers.

[graciegirl]

When such a terrible accident occurs it is only natural to wonder how it could have occurred. Even partial eye witness accounts posted here lead to questions. Why was the path of the car so erratic just prior to the accident? Why did it continue to travel so far after striking the cyclist? How did such extreme damage to the vehicle occur? Physical or mental impairment of the driver, some type of sudden medical event, possible intoxication....these are all reasonable speculations that were made by posters here.
I would take them as attempts at understanding rather than as harsh judgements or blame placing. Most commenters here are kind hearted and have offered prayers for both of the injured and their families. As do I.
That being said, just as persons susceptible to certain sudden heart arrythmias, or persons with certain seizure disorders may have their driving privileges restricted, perhaps very, very brittle diabetics should consider this as well. No matter how wonderful a person they might be.


It was so vividly described that few of us could stop thinking about the victims or the witnesses. Many care.

[TennDrifter]

I'm not going to argue or attack anyone. I am not near any cars, bikes or pedestrians. You guys need to chill. You get too emotional over some comments.

You'll quickly learn that there are more "arrogant" people that just have to have the last word. Don't know what their problem is but just accept the fact that they have one and just ignore them. Thank God your not their "spouse" and have to deal with them alllll day :mmmm:

[kittygilchrist]

You'll quickly learn that there are more "arrogant" people that just have to have the last word. Don't know what their problem is but just accept the fact that they have one and just ignore them. Thank God your not their "spouse" and have to deal with them alllll day :mmmm:

Intuitive people will know that many of those irritated with sidebar comments were and are irritated with comments that fail to center on the accident and people in it, even being irritable with those who did not read everything..

For example, I wish you would thank God these people are alive instead of being a smarty pants. Have a heart.

[graciegirl]

Thank you Kitty. And thank you Gabrielle. Please keep us posted about your grandfather.

[CFrance]

It sounds like both of these accident victims have a long road to recovery. Hopefully continued prayers will speed things up for them. Prayers for both.

[Ecuadog]

Thoughts and prayers for the victims and their families.

[johnboy]

How comforting to tell the family, that because they put themselves in harms way, legally they had the right to be there. If there is an accident the bicycle will not win, get on the paths.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

How comforting to tell the family, that because they put themselves in harms way, legally they had the right to be there. If there is an accident the bicycle will not win, get on the paths.

If you want to go from Spanish Springs to Lake Sumter Landing on your bike or in your golf cart, there are no multi modal paths. On the ground where this event occurred, are painted in big white letters, GOLF CART AND BIKE LANE.

Sometimes things just happen. We cannot possibly protect ourselves from every freak occurrence. A 747 could have a problem and land on someone's house. Would you say that those people shouldn't been in their house?

Naturally, we all want to do everything to keep ourselves as safe as possible, but we also have to live. There are not many of us that would be happy living in a bunker. We all have to make decisions as to exactly how much risk we will take every day, every hour and every minute.

Millions of people have ridden their bicycles down that path over all the years that it has been there. Now because of this one freak event, we should all stop living and change everything about our lives?

I for one feel that Rio Grande and Del Mar should be widened and the multi modal path on Morse should be extended all the way to where you cross over to get to the tunnels. But I'm not going to wait to use those roads until those things are done.

Like I said, everything is a risk and you could be killed while sitting in your house.

[TOTV Team]

Comments are not allowed to be directed at other users.

We hope for the best for all involved.