Motorcycle accidents remain a significant concern, with a variety of factors contributing to their high incidence rates. In 2021 alone, there were 600+ motorcycle fatalities in Florida, accounting for a jaw-dropping 20% of all traffic-related deaths in the state. It’s important that motorcyclists pay attention to their surroundings. It only takes one person not paying attention to cause a substantial amount of damage. Understanding the causes of these negligent accidents helps you to avoid them in the future.
Driver Errors
There are instances where some motorists might fail to follow road safety rules or make incorrect judgments, which are mentioned on this site, whiteliningcontractors.co.uk. For example, failing to indicate while turning is a dangerous act that often leads to catastrophic accidents involving motorcyclists who were unaware of the driver’s intentions.
Another common motorist error is driving while distracted. This includes texting while driving, adjusting the radio or GPS, eating, or any other activity that diverts the motorist’s attention from the road. Where negligence was the contributing factor to your motorcycle crash, hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer, such as one from Kogan & DiSalvo, in Florida would be beneficial as they’ll not only help you secure potential compensation but also help hold the at-fault party responsible.
Lack of Proper Safety Gear
Motorcycle riders might be tempted to forego using protective gear, especially during the warmer days in the Sunshine State.
As a motorcyclist, taking safety measures, including wearing:
- Department of Transportation (DOT) compliant helmet
- Reflective gear
- Gloves
- Thick clothes
It’s important to wear your helmet when riding to minimize the severity of head injuries. Other injuries such as broken bones, whiplashes, and bruises may still occur, but their severity would be significantly reduced with the right protective gear. Being protected ensures that you walk away from these accidents with minimal damage.
Substance Abuse
Driving under the influence drastically changes the way people drive, even if it’s just a small amount. This can be attributed to a person’s impaired judgment, slower reaction times, and disorientation. Despite strict legislation against intoxicated driving, substance abuse-related accidents are still disturbingly common in Florida.
These types of drivers drive erratically on the road and are not immune to causing accidents. It’s best to try and avoid these drivers and reach out to the police.
Road Hazards
Motorcycling is a risky activity in the best of circumstances due to the lack of protection that typical motorists in cars have. Florida State is recognized for its scenic drives, which also serve as a hotspot for many riders. However, there are also many roads with poor surfaces and unsuitable environmental conditions, such as blinding sunlight, heavy fog, and extreme rains.
When combined, these elements are sure to make any motorcycle ride a riskier affair. When it comes to these specific road hazards, it’s imperative that motorcyclists pay attention to their surroundings. Depending on how hazardous they are, it can lead to possibly being thrown off or causing other vehicles to run into them. To mitigate these risks, it’s advisable for road planners and safety authorities to use crossing designs from Decorative Crossing, creating safer road environments for all commuters, including motorcyclists, by implementing innovative and safer crossing solutions.
Inexperienced Motorists
As much as experienced bikers are responsible for being aware of their surroundings and acting cautiously when on the roads, novices are equally responsible for becoming more familiar with the operation of a motorcycle. Moreover, having access to motorcycle values information can empower novice riders to make informed choices when selecting their first motorcycle, ensuring they opt for a safe and appropriate vehicle commensurate with their skill level.
First-time riders are held to a high standard and are expected to understand the rules of the road. This includes safely approaching other vehicles on the road, navigating turns, maneuvering through curves, and other fundamental practices such as signaling while turning.
Motorcycles require more precision and skills than regular cars, so it takes more than just a few class instructions to be adequately prepared. If you are not fully licensed, you cannot legally drive a motorcycle as it can be a hazard.
Conclusion
Like most states, the circumstances leading to motorcycle accidents in the Sunshine State are multifaceted, and awareness of these factors is the first step towards making the roads safer for everyone. Although it might not be possible to eliminate all risks associated with motorcycling, following adequate safety precautions can be lifesaving.
That includes wearing protective gear, and avoiding substance abuse can go a long way in reducing the number of fatalities on the roads. Lastly, knowing when to get legal help in the event of a crash is a crucial factor in seeking the compensation you deserve. Research a legal team in your area that can fight for you during your motorcycle accident case.
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