There are ways you can protect yourself while riding, making biking a safer and more enjoyable activity. How dangerous is riding a motorcycle in Miami? The statistics reveal a concerning trend.
Statistics On Motorcycle Crashes
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), more than 8,000 crashes involve motorcycles annually in the state. Of those 8,000, more than 900 are fatal for at least one of the people involved. In Miami alone, there are about 500 motorcycle accidents each year and 50 riders die in those crashes.
In addition to fatal accidents, more than 7,700 people are injured in motorcycle-related collisions in Miami each year. Many of these are avoidable. Most accidents result from rider or passenger car driver negligence. However, you can protect yourself if you understand the most common causes of accidents.
If you have been hurt in a crash, motorcycle accident attorney. Look for lawyers with experience working with riders injured in traffic collisions. With the right legal expert on your side, it is possible to recover six and seven-figure settlements.
The Importance Of Protective Gear
Only a little more than half of all Florida motorcyclists wear helmets. Helmets have been shown to decrease the severity of injuries in an accident and have prevented many deaths.
Nearly half of all motorcycle accidents involve a collision with another vehicle. In those accidents, the motorcyclist is almost always hit from the front. The NHTSA estimates the consistent use of helmets could save more than 2,000 lives every year.
The Most Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents
The most common causes of traffic accidents in Miami revolve around reckless driving and riding practices, including speeding, driving under the influence, and distracted driving.
Speeding
Riding the speed limit can greatly reduce the likelihood and severity of a crash. Slowing down also allows you to better react and prevent an impending accident.
Driving Under The Influence
Alcohol impairs your judgement, whether you are riding a motorcycle, driving a car, or riding a bicycle. Avoid alcohol when you are riding to cut down the likelihood of a crash.
Negligent Passenger Car Drivers
Passenger car drivers are notorious for creating hazardous riding conditions for motorcyclists. They throw open car doors, run through stop signs, fail to yield and make erratic lane changes.
Reckless motorists can cut bikers off on the road, turn into motorcycles at intersections, and hit riders from behind. While there is no way to control their driving, it helps them be more alert when riding near passenger cars.
Distracted Driving
Some riders are distracted by texting while stopped at a light, talking to other riders, or otherwise engaged in non-riding activities. This creates hazardous conditions for yourself and other riders, so keep your attention on the task at hand while riding.
Practice Safe Motorcycle Riding
The best way to ride safely and avoid accidents is to drive the speed limit, avoid drinking and riding and ride defensively, paying close attention to passenger car drivers, pedestrians, and trucks. Also, take care when riding in passenger cars' blind spots, around trucks, and near obstructions such as high bushes or blind corners. Safety experts recommend wearing helmets every time you get on your bike.
While these statistics may seem alarming, it is comforting to know that Florida has several laws created to protect riders in the case of an accident. There are legal remedies available if you have been in an accident, so it pays to reach out to your attorney immediately. There are time limits on certain legal actions, so you want to act quickly to ensure you get the remedies you deserve.
