Thousands of Florida residents ride motorcycles every day. With decent weather year-round, there is no reason to put their motorcycles up as winter approaches. However, despite the fact that motorcycles are always on the roads in Florida, many motorists simply don’t pay attention to the smaller vehicles, or they don’t notice them. As a result, most motorcyclists take plenty of steps to attempt to stay safe and avoid motorcycle accidents in Florida.

Safety tips

As the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration notes on its website, in one recent year – 2018 – almost 5,000 motorcyclists died in vehicle accidents. That number is far too high, and is probably part of what prompts many motorcyclists and their passengers to wear helmets. The NHTSA notes that approximately 71 percent of motorcyclists wear helmets that are compliant with Department of Transportation regulations.

But, beyond helmet use, motorcyclists can stay safe by increasing their riding skills and understanding the big difference between driving a car and riding a motorcycle. Motorcyclists must also be sure to check their motorcycle before they ride, looking for properly functioning lights, tires and brakes, among other mechanical issues. And, of course, motorcyclists should always avoid riding after consuming alcohol.

However, all the safety measures in the world sometimes aren’t enough to prevent motorcycle accidents. Other drivers are distracted, speeding or simply aren’t paying attention or aren’t driving with maximum awareness. When motorcyclists in Florida are injured in accidents that are caused due to another party’s negligence or recklessness, they may have legal recourse.

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