Special Events Geared at Increasing Motorcycle Safety Awareness

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, and many motorcyclists across the state have taken part in safety awareness events, including a “Can You See Me Now” ride intended to remind drivers to look twice, then look again.

Many motorcycle accidents occur when other motorists fail to see motorcycles due to their smaller size and narrower profile.

The Leading Cause of Motorcycle Accidents

In Florida, failing to see approaching motorcycles is a leading cause of motorcycle accidents. Florida has the second highest per capita population of motorcyclists in the United States, second only to California. Part of this is due to the nice weather that allows riders to ride every season of the year. However, the Florida Highway Patrol reports that Florida has some of the highest numbers of motorcycle accidents in the country.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, approximately 9,500 crashes occurred in 2017, resulting in the death of 611 people. The number of fatalities is disproportionate to the number of bikers: Motorcycles represent 7 percent of licensed drivers in the state while accounting for 20 percent of motor-vehicle fatalities.

Motorcycle Awareness Programs for Road Safety

For Motorcycle Awareness Month, many group rides were arranged. Experienced bikers talked about the importance of constantly looking ahead and being aware of your surroundings in case you need an escape route. Bikers who travel in large groups help increase their visibility. Some events began with safety training and teaching up to 23 hand signals so that bikers could communicate with each other.

In other events, riders discussed the importance of helmets and safety clothing. Although bikers in Florida can choose not to wear a helmet, they are required to wear safety goggles, and helmets are highly recommended to prevent fatalities. Some bikers discussed the importance of receiving adequate training on the bike they intend to ride since sometimes bikers will take the required safety training course for a smaller, lighter bike but then ride a larger bike that may be more difficult to handle.

Riders are also encouraged not to be distracted while riding a motorcycle because the consequences can be deadly. Bikers are also encouraged not to drink and drive, as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that 43 percent of motorcycle riders who died in single-vehicle accidents in 2014 were impaired by alcohol.

Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer for Assistance

Despite how safe you may try to be, motorcycle accidents may still occur. If you are hurt in a motorcycle accident or you lost a loved one in a fatal accident, it is important that you have an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side.

The motorcycle accident lawyers at LLG can help you pursue a claim against the negligent party for the full extent of damages that you have suffered. Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential consultation.