Motorcycles are a great way to get around the sunny state of Florida. With everlasting summer, beautiful beaches, and picturesque destinations, there are fewer experiences that are less freeing than riding the open road with nothing but the breeze and the sun shining down on you.
At the same time, the freedom of owning and operating a motorcycle comes at a great price – personal safety – and with the abundance of accidents on the road, it’s important to note some key facts about accidents in Florida concerning motorcycles.
Understanding the Risk
Motorcyclists are 27 more times likely than passenger car occupants to die in a crash, according to the report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration published in 2018. In the state of Florida, it’s not mandatory to wear a helmet – so this number could rise even higher.
A startling statistic for sure – but fortunately, there are ways to mitigate the risks by practicing safe riding habits, and watching for specific risks that endanger motorcyclists.
What to Watch For
Poor road conditions: by design, motorcycles are less stable than 4-wheeled vehicles, and this is important. Watch out for potholes, uneven pavement, or slippery surfaces. Avoid driving at night and during poor weather conditions, and try to stick to familiar routes if you can.
Lane Splitting: While you might want to bypass a traffic gridlock by riding between two lanes, this is incredibly dangerous. The other drivers and their vehicles are not expecting a rider to approach them faster than the speed of the traffic around them. Lane splitting is very risky and should be avoided at all costs.
Blind spots: Always make the effort to stay visible to other drivers. Make sure you can see their mirror, and make sure they can see you! It’s very dangerous to ride in their blind spot, and since a motorcycle is smaller in size, it’s easy to disappear from view.
Accident Agents: Ready to Help Injured Motorcyclists
While cautious riders can protect themselves by riding responsibly, some collisions are unavoidable. If you were involved in an accident, contact the Accident Agents today to learn about what your next steps are in getting better, seeking compensation, and getting back to your life. Our team of expert case managers helps you at every step of the way, to ensure your rights are protected, and that you’re compliant with the entire process. We’re ready to help!