Florida is one of the most popular states for motorcycle travel, but unfortunately, it is also the U.S. state with the most motorcycle accident deaths. A WCTV report from earlier this year revealed that Florida leads the nation in motorcycle accident fatalities. Although motorcycle riders account for only seven percent of Florida motorists, motorcycles are involved in nineteen percent of fatal accidents. In fact, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are more than 30 times more likely than people in passenger vehicles to die in a traffic accident.
Accidents typically result in serious and often fatal brain injuries, neck and spine injuries, broken bones, and internal injuries. The above statistics are likely due in part to the fact that Florida motorcyclists are not required to wear helmets.
You can protect yourself while riding by following these motorcycle safety tips:
- Increase your visibility. Wearing brightly colored safety gear, riding with headlights on, and adding reflective strips to your bike will increase your visibility to other motorists and reduce the chances of a collision.
- Avoid blind spots. Don’t linger in the blind spots of other drivers. If you need to pass them, do so as soon as possible and reposition yourself in a visible spot in the lane.
- Wear safety gear. Always wear a helmet, closed-toe shoes, protective clothing, and protective eyewear when riding your motorcycle. Remember that the only thing between you and the ground is your gear, so make sure you wear it!
- Drive responsibly. Use good judgment when riding your motorcycle. This means that you should obey the speed limit, use your signals when merging and turning, and avoid weaving between lanes.
Todd Miner Law®️ represents motorcycle accident victims in Orlando and the surrounding areas, including the Orange, Brevard, Lake, Seminole, Marion, Volusia, and Osceola Counties. As a former auto insurance defense attorney, Attorney Todd Miner has first-hand knowledge of how insurance companies handle motorcycle accident claims. He uses this knowledge to benefit injured individuals and help them obtain the full and fair compensation they deserve after an accident. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident, contact our firm to receive a free legal consultation.
We’re here to help. Call today to speak with an Orlando motorcycle accident lawyer about your case.
