What Are the Safest Cycling Routes in Ocala, FL?
Bill Allen | September 20, 2024 | Bicycle Accidents
Although Florida’s high number of clear-sky days, subtropical climate, and flat terrain make it a hot spot for cyclists, it regularly ranks as one of the most dangerous states for riding a bike. Cycling enthusiasts who reside in or frequently visit Ocala probably know this all too well.
Florida Roads Are Far From Safe For Bike Riders
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reports that 8,413 bicycle crashes occurred in the state in 2023, with 227 fatalities. In the same year, Marion County, which contains Ocala, had 112 bicycle collisions, leading to four fatalities and many more injuries.
The People Powered Movement, an organization dedicated to the advocacy of cycling and walking in the United States, provides an overview of bike safety in Ocala — and it’s not good. Motor vehicle-related bicycle accidents are among the top four types of injury crashes in the area, according to the overview.
People Powered Movement blames Ocala’s lack of bicycling infrastructure for the numerous accidents every year. For example, even though many of the city’s high-traffic roads — where many bicycle crashes occur — have bike lanes, there are no barriers to protect riders from passing motor vehicles.
However, the Ocala Marion County Transportation Planning Organization plans to develop more biking infrastructure over the next ten years.
The 5 Safest Cycling Routes in Ocala
In the meantime, riders should opt for trails deemed safe by the county and the area’s cycling community to avoid collisions with motor vehicles. Here are five bike trails that have been given the thumbs-up on safety.
475A Landbridge Trailhead To the Greenway
Bicyclists can ride a single-track trail from the Landbridge Trailhead to the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, with its network of 80 miles of trails — paved and unpaved. To reach the Greenway, cyclists need only ride over the 200-foot land bridge, which crosses I-75 from above. The Landbridge Trail can be accessed at 111000 SW 16th Street in Ocala.
Baseline Road Trailhead
The Baseline Road Trailhead offers five miles of paved, multi-use trail that winds through old pastures and wooded areas and connects with the Marshall Swamp Trail. Managed by Marion County Parks and Recreation, the trail has amenities, such as parking and restrooms. It’s located at 4255 SE 58th Street in Ocala.
Santos Trailhead and Campground
The Santos Trailhead contains more than 80 miles of single-track paved and unpaved trails. It provides terrain for all skill levels, beginner to expert, and they are color-coded to warn riders of the needed experience.
Amenities include restrooms, potable water, and a picnic area. The Ocala Mountain Bike Association contributes to the trail’s maintenance. Santos Trailhead is located at 3080 SE 80th Street in Ocala.
Scott Springs Park
Scott Springs is a 21.68-acre city park located at 2825 SW 24th Avenue, Ocala. Here, cyclists can find a paved 3/4-mile looping bike trail, perfect for beginners. The park has restrooms and other amenities.
Shangri-La Trailhead To the Greenway
The Shangri-La Trailhead and Campground is located at 12788 S.W. 69th Court in Ocala, near the southern boundary of the Greenway. A single-track trail a little over one mile in length leads to the Greenway. Restrooms and a picnic pavilion are among the amenities.
Cycling in Groups Can Reduce Safety Risks
When on-road bicycling is preferred, riding in groups is an excellent way to reduce safety risks. Drivers are more likely to see two or more cyclists than a single rider, and they tend to give them more space. Also, the lead rider can alert drivers to conditions up ahead.
Not sure how to participate in a group ride? Start with an Ocala bike shop. They may even organize weekly group rides.
Contact Our Ocala Personal Injury Law Firm in North Central Florida
If you need legal assistance, contact the Ocala personal injury lawyers at Allen Law Firm, P.A. at your nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We have three convenient locations in North Central Florida:
Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Ocala Office
112 S Pine Ave
Ocala, FL 34471
(352) 351-3258
Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Downtown Gainesville
621 W University Ave
Gainesville, FL 32601
(866) 928-6292
Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Gainesville office
2550 SW 76th St #150
Gainesville, FL 32608
(877) 255-3652
