Deadly Tampa Bay Area Intersection to Upgrade Safety

Tampa, FL (Law Firm Newswire) July25, 2014 – The Florida Department of Transportation has recommended a safety upgrade to one of the most accident-prone intersections in the Tampa Bay area.

The intersection of Belcher Road and Gulf to Bay Boulevard in Clearwater has been the site of several accidents over the years, but it has been the subject
of renewed attention since crossing guard Douglas Carey was killed there in May. Carey was struck by a vehicle traveling 70 mph that was involved in a multi-car accident.

“Dangerous intersections like this one are the site of many car accidents that cause serious injuries and even death,” said Robert Joyce, a Tampa car accident attorney. “It has been known for a long time that improvements were needed, and it is unfortunate that it took a tragedy to get officials to take action.”
The Department of Transportation released a list of preliminary suggestions to make the intersection safer for drivers and pedestrians. A department representative said that most of the ideas could be implemented quickly.

One plan is to adjust the timing on traffic signals. A study showed that many crashes take place at the intersection when cars are turning, so the timing on re
en arrow signals may need adjustments. Later this year, sensors may be installed in the pavement by the city of Clearwater that will enable signal cycles to be adjusted based on traffic. Other suggested changes include refurbishing pavement markings indicating crosswalks and stop lines, as well as upgrading the lights at the bottom of signals that police officers use to determine whether a car ran a red light.

Carey, a 70-year-old retired police officer serving as a crossing guard, was killed at the intersection when a car ran a red light and struck another vehicle.

Learn more at http://www.joyceandreyespa.com Joyce and Reyes Law Firm, P.A. 307 S Hyde Park Ave Tampa, FL 33606 Call: 813.251.2007