Motorcycles are a great form of transportation for Florida residents. With the sun shining practically all year round, motorcycles offer riders a great way to enjoy the environment while commuting or riding for pleasure. However, despite their appeal and advanced features, motorcycles can be dangerous for riders when negligent and distracted drivers are close by.

Motorcycle accidents caused by vehicle drivers are unfortunately common and can cause serious injuries and deaths to riders. This post will examine one problem that can contribute to motorcycle crashes: the failure of drivers to see or recognize motorcycles on the roads. No part of this post should be read as legal advice and all readers are encouraged to talk to personal injury attorneys about their possible claims if they have questions about automobile or motorcycle accidents.

Driving distractions

Motorcycles are not uncommon, but many drivers fail to notice them when they share the roads. One reason for this dangerous problem is the prevalence of distracted drivers. Distracted drivers allow their focus and attention to be directed toward tasks other than driving, and when they do, they can cause collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, and motorcycles. Distractions can take drivers’ eyes off the roads and prevent them from seeing motorcycles and their riders.

Failing to follow safe driving habits

Another cause of motorcycle collisions is driver negligence. Many drivers understand that their vehicles have blind spots, or places where the drivers cannot see with their mirrors. A driver may have to look over their shoulder to see if anyone is in their blind spot before they change lanes, and when they fail to do so they can hit and harm motorcyclists who have driven next to them. Not using signals, speeding, and violating other traffic laws can put motorcyclists at risk.

Visual recognition

There is a third cause of motorcycle collisions that drivers can proactively address to prevent harming riders: looking out for them. Motorcycles are common but not as common as larger personal vehicles. In some situations drivers simply do not look for or see motorcycles, even when they are unobstructed. A lack of visual recognition in motorcycles can cause drivers to make dangerous roadway maneuvers that put riders in the way of harm.

Drivers in Florida can take many steps to protect motorcyclists and prevent dangerous and deadly collisions. When accidents happen, though, victims can fight to protect their rights and seek compensation to become whole. Personal injury attorneys can guide them through the necessary steps to seek their damages through litigation.

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