According to a recent study, U.S. 19 has been identified as the most lethal road in Florida, especially in Pinellas and Pasco counties.
A recent study has revealed that U.S. 19, particularly in Pinellas and Pasco counties, is the most perilous stretch of road in Florida, with numerous accidents occurring annually. Shockingly, more than 150 fatalities have been reported in Pinellas and Pasco counties since the year 2020.
According to Kris Carson from FDOT, U.S. 19 has always posed a challenge due to the presence of two types of traffic on the corridor. Fast-moving vehicles that are focused on reaching their destination quickly and local traffic that is attempting to access nearby businesses.
Although driving can be challenging, she claims that driver error is the primary cause of accidents.
According to the statistics, human error is the main cause of around 94% of accidents. This includes driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, distracted driving, and failing to wear a seatbelt. Our law enforcement partners recently emphasized the importance of wearing a seatbelt and avoiding drunk or drugged driving, as well as staying focused while driving. If everyone follows these simple guidelines, we can significantly reduce the number of fatalities and injuries on the road.
A data analyst from Consumer Affairs stated that driver deaths increased during the pandemic. The analyst recently published a new report on the matter.
According to Dieter Holger from Consumer Affairs, with the decrease in traffic during the pandemic, people tended to drive faster and get distracted easily. Consequently, there was a rise in irresponsible driving behavior. Unfortunately, many of these behaviors have persisted even after the pandemic.
A man who was considered “armed and dangerous” and responsible for a kidnapping in Tampa has been arrested, as reported by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. The woman who was abducted was found safe.
The focus of FDOT’s current project is U.S. 19, with a staggering budget of $240 million.
Carson explained that the main goal of the project is to increase the capacity and reduce traffic congestion. In addition to that, they are also taking measures to assist pedestrians in the area, such as constructing a dedicated underpass between Evans Road and Republic Drive.
He emphasized that the project is not solely focused on constructing major interchanges, but also on smaller yet equally important undertakings like determining if additional lights or crosswalks are necessary.
Completion of the U.S.19 revamp project is not anticipated until 2029.