Whether it’s a sense of freedom, feeling more connected to the environment, or the desire for fuel efficiency, motorcycle registrations in the United States have grown year over year for the past decade. Riders will tell you it’s more than a hobby; there’s a lifestyle and camaraderie among bikers unlike any other. As thrilling and adventurous as riding can be, there is no doubt this culture comes with an extra set of risks. Motorcycle fatalities occur 30 times more frequently than passenger vehicle fatalities, according to a report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
In 2017, Florida was ranked as the state with the highest number of motorcycle crash fatalities, with Jacksonville as the eighth-deadliest city in the state. At Coker Law, we want you to hit the road and enjoy the ride. “We cannot say it enough, when you see a motorcycle on the road, remember that it is someone’s parent, child or sibling,’” stresses Coker Law attorney David Thompson. “Please take extra care around motorcycles so everyone makes it home safely.”
Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind regardless of whether you drive a car or truck, are a first-time rider, or a veteran of the open road.
Everyone has seen bumper stickers or billboards along the highway urging drivers to watch out for motorcycles. With the summer months quickly approaching, there will be more motorcycles on the road than other times during the year.
Many states have a law that requires motorcyclists to wear a helmet. However, Florida appealed that law in 2000. According to the Advocates for Highway & Auto Safety, wearing a helmet reduces the risk of head injury by 69 percent, and the risk of death by 42 percent. Coker Law cautions motorcyclists to ride carefully and follow the rules of the road.
Here are some tips to ensure you’re being safe on the road:
Coker Law urges you to be careful while riding or driving around a motorcycle. If you or a loved one is hurt in a motorcycle crash, you may qualify to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages and other expenses related to your injuries. If you are involved in a crash, we have a list of do’s and don’ts on our motorcycle crash page on our website. Use this link to find a Coker Law attorney, to schedule an appointment, click here or call (904) 356-6071.