We recently posted on our South Florida Injury Lawyers Blog that many motorcycle accidents involving another vehicle are not the fault of the rider but of the driver. The message being campaigned for Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is “Share the Road with Motorcycles” amicably in order to prevent motorcycle accidents in Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach or elsewhere in the state.
Tampa Bay Online recently reported about the death of a motorcyclist who collided with a pickup truck. In this case, the motorcyclist was making a left turn with a green traffic light when he collided with the truck in the middle of the intersection. The biker was thrown from his bike and pronounced dead at the scene.
Florida Department of Transportation reports motorcycles are gaining in popularity, and with that comes a higher risk of accidents. Though the numbers were down slightly in from the last several years, Florida reported over 8,300 crashes involving a motorcycle in 2009. As a result, the state reported 376 motorcycle fatalities in 2009. The 45-54 year-old age group reported the most motorcycle injuries and fatalities when compared to any other age group in 2009.
Statistics showed that 31 percent of fatal motorcycle crashes were in the months of March, April and May in 2009 and 44 percent occurred on weekends.
With gas prices expected to reach $5 a gallon soon, Florida motorists should be on alert motorcycles on roadways.
Motorcyclists are encouraged to do their part by respectfully sharing the roadways with other motorists. Keep the following rider safety tips in mind as you travel on roadways with other motorists:
-Remember to shut your turn signal off after you turn so you don’t confuse other motorists with your intentions while you ride.
-Never drink and ride.
-Make yourself visible by using reflective tape, stickers, and bright clothing.
-Opt to postpone your trip if weather is bad. Poor weather conditions make visibility and bike control hard to maintain so delaying your ride is a sensible decision.
-Always be predictable.
The accident attorneys at Freeman, Mallard, Sharp & Gonzalez, LLC are dedicated to fighting for the rights or riders and their families. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Margate, Port St. Lucie or Miami, call us at 1-800-561-7777 for a free consultation to discuss your rights.