May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
May is National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of safe riding practices and preventing accidents on the road. It is well known when riding a motorcycle, it is undeniably dangerous. According to Forbes, “Motorcycle riders are 28 times more likely to lose their lives in a fatal driving crash compared with other motorists on the road. They are also four times as likely to sustain an injury in a collision”. If you’ve been injured in an accident due to the negligence of another party, call Barnes Cohen & Sullivan for a free consultation to help you understand your rights.
Despite efforts to improve motorcycle safety, accidents still occur, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA) states, “Although motorcycles lack the protective vehicle structure of passenger vehicles, there are actions motorcyclists can take to protect themselves in a crash.” Such actions include wearing a helmet, keeping your distance between you and the car in front of you, stay sober and not speed. According to the NHSTA, “research indicates that helmets reduce motorcycle rider fatalities by 22% – 42% and brain juries by 41% to 69%”. The Florida Highway Safety of Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), states that in Florida in 2023, there were 9,528 total motorcycle crashes, 606 of which were fatal.
Understanding Florida Insurance for Motorcycles
Understanding Florida Insurance for Motorcycles Insurance policies in Florida regarding motorcycles are important to understand if you own a motorcycle. Motorcyclists are required to provide proof they will be financially responsible in the event of an accident. PIP coverage is not available to vehicles with less than four wheels. In fact, riders cannot use PIP payments after a motorcycle crash even if they have another vehicle and pay for the policy. However, they must still abide by the state’s financial responsibility law. This ensures they can pay at least $10,000 if someone else suffers injuries in a crash they caused. There are also many types of optional insurance for motorcyclists. This includes uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (which is important in Florida because of the high percentage of uninsured drivers). For some, it is their only option to recover compensation following a crash.
In Florida & Georgia, Personal Injury Attorneys work off contingency. This means attorneys don’t ask clients to pay fees upfront or charge by the hour. Instead, if the case is settled in their client’s favor, their fees are a percentage of the total financial recovery in the case. If you have been injured due to the negligence of another party, contact a personal injury attorney for a consultation and walk through the steps of their case.
Motorcycle Safety Month serves as a timely reminder for riders and motorists alike to prioritize safety on the roads. By understanding the statistics surrounding motorcycle accidents and personal injury, individuals can take proactive steps to mitigate risks and promote safe riding practices. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a novice enthusiast, observing safety guidelines and staying vigilant can help ensure a fulfilling and, most importantly, safe riding experience. Let’s make every month Motorcycle Safety Month by fostering a culture of safety and mutual respect among all road users. While Florida is a motorcycle-friendly state, there are real dangers when riding. If you have been injured in an accident due to negligence, call Barnes Cohen & Sullivan for a Free Consultation.