Florida has beautiful landscapes that are easily explored on the back of a motorcycle. But there is a lurking danger on the road. Motorcycle accidents are the leading cause of severe injuries and fatalities on Florida’s roads and highways. It is legal to operate a bike without a helmet in the state, so that leaves the motorcyclist vulnerable to traumatic injuries in a crash.
Every year, Florida leads the nation with the highest number of motorcycle-related fatalities in the United States. These crashes take their toll on everyone in the community and make it unsafe for other travelers on the road.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Many factors can cause a motorcycle accident on the road, including drunk drivers, distracted drivers, reckless driving, and even wildlife. As a motorcyclist, you must remain extra vigilant while operating your vehicle. Florida is also a state with a high number of tourists visiting the area. They may be unfamiliar with the roadways and recklessly change lanes on the road. This course of action can cause a motorcycle to get sideswiped with devastating results. With less protection than a car or a truck, motorcyclists experience more severe injuries when involved in a crash.
Motorcycle Deaths Are on the Increase in Florida
Florida sees a lot of motorcycle traffic throughout the year. In Daytona Beach, the yearly Bike Week takes place with thousands of bike enthusiasts gathering for the celebrations. Unfortunately, with an increase in motorcycle traffic, there is an uptick in accidents as well.
In 2015, Florida saw the most significant increase in motorcycle fatalities in the past 15 years. Many accidents were the cause of drunk driving or speeding, while over 40 percent of deaths were due to failure to wear a bike helmet.
Since the study, motorcycle fatalities have decreased, but severe injuries continue to rise. If you ride on a motorcycle, you should always wear a helmet, obey all the traffic laws, and keep your eye on the other drivers. A little ounce of prevention can help stop you from getting into a severe motorcycle accident, and it might even save your life.
Reduce the Impact of Motorcycle Injuries
A few organizations are wanting to reduce the rate of motorcycle injuries and fatalities throughout the country. The nonprofit organization Accident Scene Management (ASM) has trained over 30,000 people in the country on the appropriate steps to take for an accident victim. They also provide classes for motorcyclists to stay safe on the road and give aid to those in an accident. The organization has a goal to be a one-stop safety program that trains individuals in first response for motorcycle trauma.
Contact Our Motorcycle Attorneys in Daytona Beach
If you have been in an accident, you should always try to document the accident scene for your records. The police will be able to provide you with a report when their investigation has concluded. Once you have been safety evaluated by medical professionals, you will want to contact our office to speak to a motorcycle accident attorney. At Zimmet & Zimmet, our legal team can help you with a personal injury due to a motorcycle accident. Contact our office in Daytona Beach at (386) 255-6400 for your consultation.
