Springtime means nicer weather and many more motorcycles on the road. However, a larger number of travelers and motorcycles also means greater risks of accidents. May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month across Florida and the United States. Parrish & Goodman, Attorneys at Law, highlight this important emphasis to encourage riders and other drivers to be extra safe while enjoying the roads of the Sunshine State.
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycles are easy to overlook on the road, and with the serious lack of protection for riders and passengers, they are especially at risk for serious injuries in an accident. Here are some sobering facts:
- “Although motorcycles make up only 3% of all registered vehicles and 0.7% of all vehicle miles traveled in the United States, motorcyclists accounted for 14.6% of all traffic fatalities and 3.5% of all injuries in 2022.”
- According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 6,218 motorcyclists were killed in traffic crashes in 2022.
- 35% of all motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes in 2022 were speeding, compared to 22% of all passenger car drivers.
- Motorcycle riders 21 to 24 years old involved in fatal crashes had the highest speeding involvement at 51% in 2022.
- Of the 2,254 motorcycle riders who died in single-vehicle crashes in 2022, 42% were alcohol-impaired.
- Approximately 600 motorcyclists and passengers were fatally injured in Florida during 2023.
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month was established to increase public awareness and encourage safer practices among riders and other drivers. Florida’s motorcycle safety campaign is called Ride SMART Florida. During May, the Florida Department of Transportation partnered with motorcycle training facilities to offer advanced rider training courses at reduced rates.
How Can Motorcycle Riders and Other Drivers Be More Aware?
Increasing motorcycle safety and reducing the number of accidents and injuries depends on both riders and other vehicle operators. Here are vital recommendations for both:
Motorcycle Safety for Riders
Riders are at a significant disadvantage due to their smaller size and lack of protection. Therefore, they cannot afford to drive like any other vehicle. The best piece of advice for motorcycle riders is to drive like no one can see you. Exercise extra caution when approaching and passing other vehicles and when negotiating intersections. Never assume other drivers see you and are prepared to yield the right of way. Many motorcycle instructors call this “defensive driving.” It is a good practice for every driver, especially motorcycle operators. Here are more suggestions:
- Always wear a helmet
- Wear protective clothing
- Become properly licensed
- Practice riding your motorcycle
- Check your motorcycle before every ride
- Ride responsibly
- Never ride while intoxicated
Other Drivers
Drivers of other vehicle types can do their part by always being aware of their surroundings. Expect motorcycles to be around you, look for them, and check blind spots more often. Some extra vigilance could prevent a serious, life-altering accident for both you and a motorcycle rider.
Help with Florida Motorcycle Accidents
Parrish & Goodman, Attorneys at Law, with a Florida statewide practice having physical offices in St. Petersburg, Naples and Fort Myers, has Florida Motorcycle Accident Attorneys who can help you if you are involved in an accident. Personal injuries in a motorcycle accident tend to be more severe, as the rider and any passengers have almost no protection. These injuries often include:
- Broken bones
- Abrasions
- Concussions/contusions
- TBI
- Burns
- Lacerations
- More…
If you are injured in a motorcycle accident in Florida, you could file a personal injury claim to recover compensation from the at-fault driver and other entities. Any financial remuneration could be critical to meeting medical expenses, lost wages while you recover, property losses, and emotional suffering from accident trauma.
Contact Parrish & Goodman, Attorneys at Law, as soon as possible after a motorcycle accident to protect your rights and explore your legal options.
