Even though summer is officially winding down and most of us with children are getting them ready to head back to school, our streets are still filled with riders out enjoying our great weather. Some of these riders are on bicycles, although a significant amount are cruising on motorcycles. It appears that fatal accidents involving motorcycles are on the rise across the country.
According to a report published by the Governor’s Highway Safety Association, in 2011 there were almost 5,000 accidents reported that resulted in a fatality. That same year there were 8,621 crashes involving motorcycles reported in the state of Florida, and of that number, 451 drivers and passengers were killed.
Tragedy struck on Monday, July 21, 2014, when a 23-year-old man was on his 2008 Yamaha motorcycle and collided with a Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV at around 7:50 p.m. The motorcyclist ultimately succumbed to his injuries the following day. This is just one of the latest examples of such a tragic event . Earlier this year, in Miami Gardens, an off-duty firefighter died as a result of a motorcycle wreck in which he was involved. According to reports, this accident occurred when the motorcycle hit the back of a pickup that was attempting to make a left hand turn at an intersection.
Accidents like these happen all the time. But there are certain steps that all operators on the road can take to help prevent them from occurring.
Follow the Law
Unquestionably, all motorcycle enthusiasts in Florida should wear a helmet. Under Fl. Stat. Ann. 316.211, also known as the helmet law, a person generally may not operate or ride upon a motorcycle unless the person is properly wearing protective headgear securely fastened upon his or her head which complies with Federal Motorcycle Vehicle Safety Standard 218 promulgated by the United States Department of Transportation. There is an exception to this rule though, which provides that drivers over the age of 21 are permitted to ride without helmets if they are covered by an insurance policy that provides for at least $10,000 in medical benefits for any injuries incurred in a crash on the motorcycle.
While this law may not be popular among all concerned parties, it is important to remember that it has been put in place to prevent catastrophic injuriesfrom motorcycle collisions.
Other Helpful Safety Tips
For non-motorcycle users, there are a number of things that you can do to assist with keeping everyone safe on the road as well. One of the most important issues that frequently comes up during motorcycle accident investigation is visibility. Sometimes it is much more difficult for truck and car drivers to see motorcycles, as these machines are more nimble and can weave in and out of traffic much easier. Here are some important tips for automotive users to always keep in mind when sharing the road with motorcycles:
Obey all traffic laws, signs and signals;
Constantly check and expect to see motorcycles;
Look at traffic intersections before you turn or pull out;
Allow a three-second buffer when following a motorcycle; and
Give motorcycles the same respect and courtesy that you want for yourself and other motorists.
Contact a Miami Attorney
The loss associated with any vehicle collision can be absolutely devastating. There is often physical pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and financial stress that come along with the accident. It is extremely important for anyone involved in an accident to speak to an experienced and dedicated attorney as soon as possible. Medical bills may start to mount, insurance adjusters will have to be dealt with, and injured parties may have to miss some time off of work.
If you ever find yourself in this situation, call the legal team at The Perez–Gurri Law Firm. We have helped countless numbers of clients navigate their personal injury claims and we are ready to serve your needs in the greater Miami-Dade area. Contact us today at (305) 661-1200 today in order to discuss your available legal options after a motorcycle accident.
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