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Another hot Florida summer is here! With more motorcycle riders on the road during this time, our team would like to emphasize the importance of Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. This annual campaign takes place every May and provides a time for everyone to regroup and remind ourselves that extra precautions should be taken to help keep motorcycle riders safe.
First, Some Motorcycle Accident Statistics
It probably goes without saying, but motorcycle riders are at an increased risk of sustaining severe or fatal injuries when collisions occur, compared to motor vehicle occupants. This is because riders lack physical protection around them, so they are more likely to be thrown from their bikes or sustain forceful impacts.
Just take a look at some of these motorcycle accident statistics:
- Motorcycle riders are 27 times more likely to die in the event of a crash compared to motor vehicle occupants.
- In 2018, 4,985 motorcyclists died in motorcycle crashes.
- If all motorcycle riders had worn helmets, 749 motorcyclists’ lives could have been saved in 2018.
How You Can Prevent Motorcycle Crashes
The reality is that motorcycle safety requires awareness by everyone on the road. Whether you are on two or four wheels, here are steps you can take to help prevent motorcycle accidents and stay safe:
Tips for Riders
- Educate yourself on road safety by taking a riding course.
- Obtain the right license and obey all traffic rules.
- Never ride when tired, unalert, or impaired.
- Wear a helmet that is approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
- If possible, avoid riding in adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain or storms.
- Ride defensively and never expect that other drivers see you or will yield to you.
Tips for Drivers
- Always use turn signals and check your mirrors before making a lane change.
- Eliminate distractions so you can focus your attention on the road.
- Be willing to share the road and let motorcycle riders merge or pass.
- Reduce your speed and increase your stopping distance, especially around riders.
- Never get behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
- Always yield to motorcycle riders, even if you believe that you have the right of way.
When life throws you a curveball and you are injured in a motorcycle accident, turn to Canan Law for help getting your life back on track. We know from experience that motorcycle accident claims are often difficult to handle by yourself, especially when you’re facing an insurance company that refuses to fairly pay out your claim.
Our St. Augustine motorcycle accident attorneys will work tirelessly on your behalf and guide you through every step of the legal process. This way, you have the maximum chances of receiving the full and fair compensation that you deserve.
Contact our firm at (904) 849-2266 to speak with our legal team for free today!
