Florida Ranks Worst in the Country for Motorcycle Fatalities

Florida roads are a dangerous place for motorcyclists. In fact, the state once again has been ranked the worst in the country for motorcycle fatalities. A recent AAA study found a 30 percent increase in motorcycle deaths between 2014 and 2015. While motorcycles account for 3 percent of vehicles, they are involved in more than 20 percent of the vehicle fatalities in Florida.

Florida law does not require motorcyclists (or motorcycle passengers) who are over 21 years old to wear helmets if they are covered by medical insurance that provides $10,000 in benefits for injuries resulting from a motorcycle accident. But according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), head injuries are the leading cause of death and serious injuries in motorcycle crashes. That’s why all motorcycle drivers and passengers should wear helmets.

Crash and Injury Prevention

The NHTSA describes several steps that can be taken to reduce motorcycle accidents, injuries and fatalities. Its prevention program focuses on teaching riders basic skills to safely operate a motorcycle, reducing the rate of impaired motorcycle driving and raising awareness among other drivers about how to safely share the road with motorcyclists.

In addition to helmets, the NHTSA also recommends that motorcyclists wear other protective gear, including leather jackets, gloves, long pants, the proper footwear and eye protection.

Recent Motorcycle Accidents

Daytona Beach held its 76th annual bike week in March, with tens of thousands of motorcyclists in attendance. It’s not surprising that there were multiple accidents that week given the size of the crowd. During the first weekend there were three crashes in less than 24 hours that killed two and injured six.

It’s also not uncommon for Florida drivers to crash into alligators. Two such accidents occurred in one week in May, with the second involving a motorcyclist. A Florida woman flipped her car multiple times after crashing into a 9-foot alligator on the interstate. She sustained minor cuts and bruises The second crash was more serious. A 27-year-old man was riding his motorcycle on a state road after midnight when a 10-foot, 9-inch gator crossed the road in front of him. He crashed into the gator and was thrown from his motorcycle. The man was airlifted to the hospital with serious injuries. Thankfully, the man recovered (but the alligator did not).

If you are involved in a solo accident with an alligator then there likely is not anyone you can seek damages from in a personal injury lawsuit. But always consult with an experienced attorney, who can examine the facts of your particular case and help you determine your best course of action.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, you might be entitled to damages. Contact a Tampa personal injury attorney at The Pendas Law Firm today for a free consultation. We will help ensure you receive the compensation that you deserve.

The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Orlando, West Palm Beach, Daytona and Bradenton areas.

Resources:

orlandosentinel.com/news/traffic/os-motorcycle-deaths-bike-week-20170311-story.html

one.nhtsa.gov/people/injury/pedbimot/motorcycle/safebike/approach.html

orlandosentinel.com/news/traffic/os-motorcycle-deaths-bike-week-20170311-story.html