Bicyclist Killed in Crash with SUV on U.S. 41 in Bradenton
A 56-year-old Bradenton man died Friday evening after a collision between his bicycle and an SUV on U.S. 41 at Main Drive, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
Investigators said the bicyclist was traveling north in the southbound left lane of U.S. 41 as a 31-year-old Bradenton woman stopped her SUV at the Main Drive intersection. As the driver turned left into the southbound lanes, the front right of her vehicle struck the man. He was taken to a nearby hospital with critical injuries and later pronounced dead. Troopers reported that the crash remains under investigation.
Troopers emphasized that both cyclists and motorists share responsibility for road safety. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of fatal head injuries. Florida law also requires cyclists riding at night to use front and rear lights, along with reflectors, to increase visibility.
Cyclists are encouraged to ride with traffic and use marked bike lanes or paths when possible to avoid head-on encounters with vehicles. Drivers must remain alert for bicycles and pedestrians, especially when entering or crossing major roads.
Florida continues to rank among the most dangerous states for cyclists. In 2022, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reported more than 6,000 bicycle crashes resulting in over 200 deaths statewide.
