Read Our ReviewsMost motorcycle accidents occur with other vehicles, and usually, it’s the fault of the car. In Florida, this is a big problem. In 2016, there were 555 motorcycle-related deaths in Florida. This was the highest number of deaths from motorcycle accidents in any state in America. Florida is taking steps to reduce the risk of motorcycle accidents during Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, which takes place in May. Contact a Florida injury attorney if you were involved in an accident.
Start with Training and Awareness of Motorcycle Safety
To reduce the risk of motorcycle accidents, the state of Florida is putting an emphasis on motorcycle safety. This starts with the Basic Rider Course, which is required by Florida law. All motorcyclists have to pass this test before riding on Florida roads. After completing the course, riders will be issued a Class E driver’s license.
The next step is gaining experience riding a motorcycle. The more experience you have, the safer you will be on the road. It’s recommended to take advanced safety courses periodically. This will keep you sharp on the road. Some types of riding to practice include riding in bad weather and long-distance rides.
Another safety tip is to dress appropriately while riding a motorcycle. Long-sleeves and pants are recommended. These types of clothing will protect the arms and legs during a crash. There’s an initiative in Florida called ‘Ride Proud, Dress Loud.’ The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles supports this initiative. It involves displaying decals, wearing brightly colored clothing, and displaying reflective materials. This will make the rider more visible to other drivers.
Florida has a helmet law that requires some riders to wear a helmet. If you are over the age of 21 and have at least $10,000 in medical insurance, you are exempt from the helmet law. Despite this, it is safer to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle, regardless of age or insurance coverage.
Safety Tips for Motorcyclists
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) offers several tips for riding safely. They include:
-Service the motorcycle frequently and keep it running smoothly.
-While riding, use defensive riding and watch the road ahead. Stay aware while riding as well. The MSF recommends a Search, Evaluate, and Execute (SEE) strategy while riding.
-Don’t follow too closely to traffic; this might cause an accident.
-Stay visible in the lane and be aware of turning vehicles. Stay within lanes as you cross through an intersection.
-Stay under the speed limit and adhere to the road rules.
Contact a Florida injury attorney if you were involved in an accident.
The only way to ride safer is by practicing. The chance of crashing decreases, if you spend more time riding on the road and traversing practice courses. Once you have a familiarity with the road, you will be able to react effectively to new obstacles. Some of the elements to anticipate include wet roads, wind, heavy traffic, high speeds, and uneven surfaces.