A study performed by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration has revealed that Florida is the most dangerous state in the United States for riding a motorcycle. The study showed that between late 2014 and 2015, Florida experienced an uptick in fatalities from motorcycle accidents, with one of the reasons being riders not wearing their protective helmets.
Florida’s Ongoing Issue With Motorcycle Safety
As many as 83 percent of bikers in the state of Florida claim they wear a helmet while riding. However, according to a report by the AAA, it is estimated that only 47 percent of riders wear a helmet while on the road. Nonetheless, this is not the only problem. Many people on the road are distracted and may not see a motorcycle sharing that road with them, mainly when the roads may be heavily congested.
Also, also according to a survey by the AAA, almost one out of five bikers, a whopping 16 percent don’t have motorcycle insurance. Florida also repealed its helmet law back in the summer of 2000, resulting in many not donning the protective headgear.
Sadly, even during the Bike Week event hosted by Daytona Beach, Florida, motorcycle accidents occur. In under 24 hours after the start of the event, there were three accidents with six bikers injured and two others dead.
Among the most dangerous areas in Florida for motorcycles are Brevard, Miami-Dade, and Orange counties. Out of those three areas, Miami-Dade had the most motorcycle fatalities in 2015 with 67 that year. Orange County saw 26 motorcycle deaths that same year. The Insurance Information Institute reported that, in 2015, there was an 8.3 percent increase in fatalities stemming from motorcycle accidents across the country as well.
Staying Safe on a Motorcycle in Florida
Summer, in particular, is the most dangerous time of year for motorcycle riders. There are measures bikers can take to stay safer on the road. These include the following:
- Wear a helmet and other protective gear, such as goggles, thick shoes, and long sleeves
- Avoid riding past the limit and take breaks when feeling tired
- Keep the motorcycle updated by taking it to a mechanic
- Talk to family and friends about motorcycle safety
- Take extra care when sharing roads with commercial trucks
- Only ride with other trusted bikers
Even though Florida is the most dangerous state for motorcycle riders, each biker can take these precautions to stay safer on the road. Doing so can also protect their loved ones and fellow riders.
In the unfortunate instance you are involved in a motorcycle accident, be sure to secure the services of a local motor vehicle accident attorney. The Fort Lauderdale motorcycle accident lawyers at Salpeter Gitkin, LLP have helped many personal injury victims recover fair compensation and can do the same for you. Contact us today at 954-467-8622 for a free case evaluation.
