Motorcycle Safety

Motorcycle Safety

Florida Weather Means It’s Always Bike Season

Those cool ocean breezes feel amazing while riding beachside and there’s something amazing about the uninterrupted view from a motorcycle. Unfortunately, as many people will tell you, riding a motorcycle can be pretty dangerous. In order to best prevent motorcycle accidents, it may be useful to take a look at why motorcycle accidents happen and practice good motorcycle safety.

Florida Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Motorcycle accidents have a higher fatality rate than car accidents. In 2013, 3.1 percent of traffic accidents involved a motorcyclist. That’s a small percent, which is great. But when you look at the fact that almost 20% of traffic fatalities in 2013 involved a motorcycle accident the danger of these accidents becomes clearer.

In 2000, Florida repealed its helmet law. Currently, only riders under 21 are required to wear a helmet. Unfortunately, after the helmet law was repealed, more motorcycle accidents ended in a fatality. Helmets help protect against traumatic brain injury, which is one of the leading causes of death following a motorcycle accident.

While Florida motorcycle law no longer requires riders to wear a helmet, wearing one could save your life. Yes, Florida has made it clear that motorcyclists have the right to choose whether they wear a helmet or not, but with a rise of motorcycle accidents and fatalities in Florida, it’s smart to strap one on.

Alcohol has been another frequent factor in motorcycle fatalities. Almost 30% of Florida motorcycle accident fatalities in 2013 involved a rider with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or higher. While the law allows riders to choose whether they wear a helmet or not, it doesn’t allow them to decide whether to drive drunk. Drinking impairs judgment and reaction time, two very important things for a motorcyclist. If you plan on riding, don’t drink.

How Can Riders Avoid a Motorcycle Accident?

One of the most important things (in addition to not drinking) that a motorcyclist can do to stay safe and enjoy their ride is to be alert. Driving defensively is all about anticipating the moves other motorists are going to make and being aware of the road conditions. While this may sound obvious, driving defensively can save a motorcyclist’s life.

One of the most common motorcycle accidents is caused by motorists who are attempting to make a left turn. In their haste, they fail to see the motorcycle in the opposite lane and turn into its path. It’s a dangerous situation and one that can be avoided by paying attention at intersections and anticipating the movements of other drivers.

Many motorcyclists can attest to the fact that some motorists just don’t seem comfortable driving around a motorcycle. They drive too close, cut them off, or pass too close. If you are ever in a position that makes you feel uncomfortable, it is best to get off the road and wait for the unsafe motorist to pass.

Keeping your eye on the road and avoiding gravel and oil spills can help ensure a smooth ride. As can maintaining a safe speed—especially around blind turns. Once again, this is all part of defensive driving—focusing on the task at hand and truly paying attention to the road and to the other people on it.

Getting Help From a Tampa Personal Injury Lawyer After a Motorcycle Accident

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, speaking with a Tampa personal injury lawyer can help you better understand what happened. A skilled Tampa motorcycle accident lawyer can investigate your accident and deal with insurers and the other party. With a unique understanding of motorcycle and traffic law, a Tampa motorcycle accident lawyer can assist in seeking compensation for your injuries.

You shouldn’t have to worry about increasing medical bills and future care for an accident that wasn’t your fault. Consult a Tampa personal injury lawyer to get the justice you deserve.