There are a lot of causes that lead to motorcycle accidents in Florida, but there are a few items that top the list. Knowing those causes helps you minimize situations that can lead to an accident, and it also helps you approach them mindfully when you can’t avoid navigating risky traffic. If you’re in an accident despite your best efforts, a Tampa injury attorney might be your best option, but if you haven’t had a crash yet, vigilance can help you minimize your odds.
Motorcycle riding is generally safe. In 2018, there were a little over 8,700 motorcycle crashes in Florida, about 600 fewer than there were pedestrian crashes. Knowing how to spot signs you should show caution can help minimize those numbers even more.
Left Hand Turns
One of the top causes of motorcycle crashes in any state is a collision with a vehicle turning left. Regardless of how the collision happens, a crash between a motorcycle and a car is always serious for the motorcycle, because the difference in mass amplifies the effects. If you can avoid injury, there is still the matter of repair to the bike, and usually also a need for new gear.
Remember, once your protective gear has taken a serious hit, it’s time to trade up to a fresh set to keep yourself protected. Being vigilant around vehicles is important, because often cars fail to signal before making an accident-causing turn. Look for signs like oncoming vehicles slowing down, or for cross-traffic, edging forward at the intersection. Navigate the area carefully whenever you spot these signs, in case a surprise turn happens.
Head-on Collisions
It can be easy to miss a motorcycle from a large auto or truck, but that’s no excuse for drivers who crash head-on into a bike, especially when it’s because the auto driver is trying to pass, one of the common causes for head-on crashes. Other things that can lead to this situation are drunk driving on the part of the auto operator or motorcyclist, bikes lane splitting in traffic moving at full speed, and motorcycles passing other vehicles without adequate space.
You can’t control what drivers do, but you can minimize the causes you contribute to while you look carefully for signs a driver might try to pass by taking your lane when you are out for a ride. The more you use two lane highways and country roads to enjoy the scenery, the more this becomes something to look out for.
Get Help Quickly
While you can minimize your risks, you still need a plan that covers what you should do if you’re in an accident, so you know how to protect your rights. Talking to an attorney early in the process can set you up for a better chance of getting the settlement you need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and damage to your bike.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
