How Safe is it to Cross Gulf Boulevard?

How safe is it to cross Gulf Boulevard?

That was a topic of discussion for some Pinellas Beaches Patch readers who commented following our recent story about a pedestrian who suffered life threatening injuries when he was struck by a Volvo while crossing Gulf Boulevard in Indian Rocks Beach.

It was the latest vehicle-versus-pedestrian accident on the roadway, which stretches along Pinellas County's beachfront communities from Sand Key down to Treasure Island.

Last month, another man was seriously injured when he was struck by a car as he crossed Gulf Boulevard in St. Pete Beach. Witnesses told deputies that the 58-year-old man had made it to the median and that as he ran across Gulf Boulevard he was struck by a 2004 MINI two-door that was headed southbound, in the curbside lane.

Here's what some readers had to say after this week's accident, which happened at Gulf Boulevard near Eighth Avenue in Indian Rocks Beach:

"I know this area well and I have to cross here every day. It is extremely unsafe for both those on foot and in car," commented Melissa Clinton Dotson on the Pinellas Beaches Patch Facebook page. "There is a slight curve in the road that is a blind spot for cars coming north and those trying to either cross from the east side of GULF or go south by car. For the amount of foot traffic in this area combined a popular beach access hopefully this issue will be addressed."

"No one drives 30 mph on Gulf Blvd," posted Karen Bowen. "Sadly, even with pedestrian crosswalks drivers still do not slow down or stop most of the time."

"My mom lives on North Redington and they have the crosswalks with flashing lights there, and still the drivers almost hit people in the crosswalk all the time," wrote Kim Sauls Begay.

"I live in Belleair Beach and when I cross Gulf Blvd. to go to the beach (6th street) at the crosswalk, I have to be so careful as cars are speeding and often do not stop for the flashing yellow light," commented Beth Pierce. "I have started driving even though I am only 2 blocks from the beach."

So what do you think? Is Gulf Boulevard unsafe for pedestrians, or do they contribute to some of the accidents that happen on the beaches? Share your opinion in the comments below.