SARASOTA CO., FL (WWSB) - After two fatal accidents earlier this year, the Florida Department of Transportation has decided to reduce the speed limit around --what many call-- a dangerous stretch of road on Siesta Key.
The area around Siesta Drive and Higel Avenue includes a near 90 degree turn. In April and June of this year, there were two separate fatal accidents.
FDOT will reduce the area around the turn from 40 to 30 miles per hour. The actual turn still includes a 25 miles per hour limit.
Agency spokesman Robin Stublen said requests from neighbors caused them to take a closer look at the situation.
"Some of these (accidents) have been driver error, some of have been they're been driving faster, others have been they were driving under the influence. Not saying everyone is but there is a whole list of factors that can contribute to crashes on sharp turns," Stublen said.
It will take about two weeks until the speed limit change goes into effect. FDOT is working to replace the speed limit signs.
A group of concerned Siesta Key residents formed a group called 'Make Siesta Drive Safer.' They say this is a step in the right direction.
