With sunshine nearly year round and breathtaking ocean drives, Florida is one of the most beautiful states for motorcyclists of all ages. Yet this beauty comes with a heavy price. According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration, Florida is one of the most dangerous states in the country for motorcyclists. In fact, from 2014 to 2015, motorcycle accident fatalities increased by 30%.
One of the reasons for the increase in Florida motorcycle fatalities was the lack of helmet use. A recent AAA study found that while 83% of motorcyclists claim to wear their helmets, only 47% actually do. Helmet use has been proven to drastically reduce the risk of sustaining a life threatening head or neck injury. So, just how much do they protect bikers? The IIHS reported that helmets are 37% effective in preventing motorcycle accident deaths and 67% effective in preventing brain injuries.
Sharing the Road with Motorcyclists in Florida
Motorcycle helmets weren’t the only reason for the increase in Florida motorcycle accident fatalities, however. Often times, other drivers simply don’t see motorcyclists on the road. At any given moment, many drivers are multitasking on their phones, navigating with GPS devices, and driving distracted. At intersections where traffic may be congested, this type of distracted driving can be deadly. Inattentive drivers may turn left into an oncoming motorcyclist, rear-end a biker at a red light, or side swipe a motorcyclist while changing lanes. To avoid these types of deadly accidents, the NHTSA recommends that all motorists always look twice for motorcyclists.
Tips for Staying Safe in Florida
If you are a motorcyclist, there are several ways you can help reduce your risk of getting into a serious motorcycle accident. Some valuable motorcycling safety tips include:
- Don’t drink and drive
- Don’t drive distracted
- Always wear a helmet
- Use your daytime running lights
- Always wear bright reflective clothing
- Wear protective clothing
- Don’t ride drowsy
- Check the weather before you ride
- Drive defensively
- Always check your blind spots
Injured Florida Motorcycles Need Help
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycling accident in Florida, it is important to understand all of your legal rights. A law firm with extensive experience representing injured Florida motorcyclists can help you recover the money you need after a devastating accident. Sadly, insurance companies are not on your side, and unscrupulous insurance adjusters often try to get injured motorcyclists to take a low-ball settlement offer that is usually only a fraction of what they truly need to recover.
Helping Injured Bikers Is What We Do
At Sternberg / Forsythe, our West Palm Beach motorcycle accident attorneys understand the complications that can arise after a motorcycle accident. We offer injured bikers experienced and compassionate legal assistance from the start. Our attorneys will help you obtain the money you need to pay medical expenses, lost wages, and more. With offices conveniently located in West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, and Orlando, we are here for you wherever you need us. Call us at 561-687-5660 today for a free consultation and review of your case, or simply fill out our confidential contact form and we’ll get right back to you.