ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Eight people have died in crashes along Hiawassee Road this year, including a 20-year-old motorcyclist who was killed just last week at Hiawassee and Meadow Drive. Over the past five years, there have been more than 400 vehicle crashes and 67 injuries, according to new data from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.
Standing beside flowers and candles at a memorial on Hiawassee Meadow Drive, where the 20-year-old motorcyclist lost his life, neighbors say they’re devastated and are urging drivers to slow down and pay attention so tragedies like this don’t happen again.
Flowers lining Hiawassee Road have become a familiar sight.
“It’s terrible. I mean, there have been multiple accidents out here. Several deaths, which is very sad. Just Saturday, a 20-year-old lost his life,” said Mary Walker, who lives near Hiawassee Meadow Drive.
The motorcyclist, Florida Highway Patrol says, crashed into a Jeep Compass turning left from Hiawassee Meadow Drive. Neighbors say they’re shaken and hope this serves as a wake-up call for drivers.
“They really drive up and down here over 50 mph every day from morning till night,” said Malcolm Sept, who also lives nearby.
Mary added, “Not only are they speeding, but they’re dodging in and out of traffic—getting real close to people.”
Traffic safety expert Trooper Steve emphasized the ongoing dangers.
“Failed to stop at the stop sign. Jumps in front of this car—look at that. This is exactly why these crashes happen.”
Data provided by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office shows nearly 3,000 calls for service in the past five years, along with more than 400 crashes, at least 67 of them causing injuries.
Trooper Steve, who patrolled Hiawassee Road a decade ago, says the issues haven’t changed.
“The issues I saw in 2015–2014 are still the same issues we’re seeing here today. It’s high speed, people failing to yield, almost a sense of reckless driving,” he said.
Orange County sent this statement to News 6:
“Orange County Transportation Planning is in the process of studying Hiawassee Road for bicycle and pedestrian safety improvements between Balboa Drive and Silver Star Road. This study is less than halfway complete and is in the review study phase. Comments from Transportation Planning have been sent to the consultant to respond and update the study.
“Because the study is in process, Transportation Planning is not yet releasing results or recommendations to the public. We are working with Commissioner Scott’s office to coordinate a date to present alternatives to residents who live along the corridor. We plan to hold two meetings with residents.
In the first meeting, Transportation Planning will present the findings and alternatives. In the second meeting, Transportation Planning will present recommended improvement concepts for Hiawassee Road.”
Residents hope the study leads to real changes, especially since many kids and families walk in the area. “There could be a light at this subdivision. If they had a light at this subdivision, it would be better,” Sept said.
Another neighbor, Jay, added, “I think the biggest thing is that they have to be out here doing enforcement more often. They try. I know it’s a hard thing to do with everything else that’s going on.”
Orange County officials say they plan to hold two meetings once the study wraps up to present findings, alternatives, and potential improvements for Hiawassee Road.