WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — In the first three months of 2022, there have been 47 bicycle-related crashes, according to the Palm Beach Transportation Planning Agency. Of those 47 crashed, three resulted in fatalities or serious injuries.
The TPA is hoping to bring awareness to bikers on the roadways for Bicycle Month, happening this month.
They want to remind drivers of the laws when a bicycle is nearby with the bicycle ride happening Friday in downtown West Palm Beach.
TPA, local leaders and residents will meet at the TPA headquarters for a 30-minute ride around town. Pedestrian Bicycle Coordinator Alyssa Frank said they will make stops along the way to point out bike-rental options, different types of bike lanes, and more.
"People should feel comfortable to travel wherever they need to travel or have the ability to travel, because at the end of the day, bicycles are great. They're fun. They're great exercise," Frank said. "But a lot of people rely on that as their mode of transportation, and it's not anyone's place to get in the way of that."
Bicycles are also offering a cheaper alternative to cars as fuel prices surge. Frank said TPA is already anticipating more bikers on the road.
"Now is a fantastic opportunity to maybe switch out the more expensive form of transportation like driving, where you have to pay gas, oil, maintenance, all of that, "Frank said. "Now's the perfect time to switch over to other modes of transportation."
The ride starts at 8 a.m. at Palm Beach TPA 301 Datura Street, West Palm Beach. The TPA wants to remind drivers that the law requires 3 feet between cars and bike on the road.
