By Chuck Geary
For years, Florida cyclists have dreamed about completing a bike trip which would take them all the way across our state. As a teenager, firm attorney, Chuck Geary, completed three cross Florida bike trips as president of the local cycling club, the “Gold Coasters.” Cycling was simpler then and interior Florida roads were lazy (safe) county roads meandering through orange groves and cattle fields.
Times have changed and so has Florida traffic and road safety. About 10 years ago, cyclists began looking for a new and safe way to cycle across our beautiful state without the use of our busy highway system. With the collaboration of many cycling groups and local bike clubs and with cooperation from many local governments and bike trail owners, a cross Florida bike trail system has come together!
The current route is known as “Florida’s Coast-to-Coast Bike Trail” and it stretches from Titusville on the Atlantic Coast to St. Petersburg, on the Gulf Coast. Local cycling groups and even statewide cycling organizations like BikeFlorida.org are now promoting this trail. Facebook groups have evolved where riders share trips and local knowledge like lodging and bike repair locations.
Firm attorney, Chuck Geary, and his wife Becky recently completed the entire 250-mile trip and have good things to say about the trail and about BikeFlorida.org.
This 250-mile bike trail will allow you to traverse Florida without riding on highways or busy roads. Most of the route is on local bike trails. These bike trails have been patched together (much like the Appalachian Trail) to form a continuous route across our state. Organizers are now working on signage and route markings. The entire route is presently available for free download in cycling apps like “RidewithGPS.” Coffee shops and bike shops are emerging along the new route.
With the expert assistance and support of BikeFlorida.org, the Geary’s were able to complete their trip in four days and all nights were even spent in first-rate hotels located along the route. Typical riding surfaces included paved bike paths and sidewalks. Many paths are even shaded. All surfaces were separated from traffic. Even on this protected trail, Mr. Geary advises all riders to follow all roadway laws and to follow safety protocols like wearing a helmet, bright clothing and using continuously flashing (daylight visible) lighting.
Feel free to contact Chuck Geary if you would like further information about the new Coast-to-Coast Bike Trail. Chuck is a lifelong cyclist and a well-known cycling attorney and cycling advocate. He and his wife sponsor annual charity rides to Key West and other locations. If you would like to participate in one of his upcoming charity rides, or his next cross Florida ride, you can contact him at our Stuart office.
Chuck Geary represents many people who have been involved in cycling and motor vehicle accidents. He understands their needs and works hard to reach maximum recoveries for his clients. You can schedule a free consultation with Chuck by calling our Stuart Office at 1-877-LAW-LLLS any time.
