BARTOW, Fla. – May isn't just about celebrating Mother's Day — it's also a time to recognize the lives at stake on our roads during Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.

For Joe Glorioso, this cause is deeply personal. The Florida Department of Transportation’s Motorcycle Safety Ambassador has survived two serious motorcycle crashes — one nearly fatal. Today, he channels those experiences into a life-saving mission: promoting awareness, education, and empathy among drivers and riders alike.

“Both crashes could have been avoided had the drivers been attentive and alert,” said Glorioso. “It only takes a split second to change — or end — someone’s life.”

Glorioso and the FDOT team will host a one hour, media-invited safety demonstration on Thursday, May 22 at 9 a.m., at the FDOT Bartow Operations Center (2740 State Road 60 West, Bartow, FL 33830).

The session will include:

• A live group highway ride demonstration with a drone flyover (Drone footage will be available to the media onsite)
• A beginner motorcycle obstacle course
• A showcase of modern safety gear
• Expert tips on safe riding and driving habits
• A crucial discussion on when to consider retiring from riding
• Media will have access to compelling visuals, safety demonstrations, and interviews with Glorioso, who speaks candidly and passionately about how safety education can prevent senseless tragedies.
• According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
• Florida loses around 600 motorcyclists a year — that's 1 to 2 lives lost every day
• According to data from Ride Smart Florida, in 2023, Hillsborough County ranked 3rd in the state for motorcycle deaths (39 fatalities), Polk 12th (21 fatalities), and Sarasota 15th (15 fatalities)

“Those numbers should be alarming to anyone who gets on the highway — whether you’re on two wheels or four,” Glorioso emphasized. “Education and, most importantly, respect for one another’s space are how we all get home alive.”

This event provides the media with a chance to share a story that not only informs the public but can truly save lives.

For coverage inquiries or to schedule an interview with Joe Glorioso, please contact:
Janella Newsome, Public Information Director 📧 janella.newsome@dot.state.fl.us

###

SWFLRoads.com | X: @MyFDOT_SWFL | Facebook: @MyFDOTSWFL

The Florida Department of Transportation’s mission is to provide a safe statewide transportation system that promotes the efficient movement of people and goods, supports the state’s economic competitiveness, prioritizes Florida’s environment and natural resources, and preserves the quality of life and connectedness of the state’s communities