Distracted Drivers Lead to More Motorcycle Accidents
The Sunshine State of Florida has some of the best weather in the entire country, year-round. Our open roads provide beautiful scenic views. It is no wonder that motorcyclists love taking to the highways and byways of Florida throughout the year. Unfortunately, we also have one of the top rates for motorcycle accidents.
Distracted Drivers Can Cause Accidents
One of the most prevalent causes for accidents is distracted driving. People do a variety of things that take their eyes off the road while they are driving. Eating, drinking beverages, shaving, putting on makeup, fiddling with mobile devices and even reading are among the popular distractions. Distracted drivers are most prone to have an accident while texting or talking on the cell phone.
Motorcyclists are at a higher risk on the road because of their low profile. Even in the best of times, drivers of other vehicles are not always aware that there is a motorcycle near their vehicle. The 2017 Annual Report published by Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles cites grim statistics for motorcyclists. Nearly 10,000 were involved in motorcycle accidents and 515 people lost their life. Not all of these accidents were due to distracted driving; however, in can be assumed that many were.
Florida Is Leading State for Motorcycle Accidents
The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) has been tracking state motorcyclist fatalities for years. Florida has been at the top of the list for the most motorcycle accidents. Even though there was a decrease in fatalities from 2016 to the preliminary information available for 2017, Florida was still at the top by more than 100.
The Most Common Motorcycle Accident
A large percentage of motorcycle accidents occur at an intersection when a vehicle is making a left-hand turn. A motorcyclist not making the turn is often clipped because the driver of the vehicle either did not see the motorcycle or was a distracted driver. Being aware of a motorcycle on the road takes conscious effort, even on Florida roadways where motorcyclists are plentiful. Taking your eyes off the road for a few seconds can lead to deadly consequences.
It Is Up to Everyone
Preventing motorcycle accidents is not just up to the motorcyclist. Everyone has a part in making Florida roads safer. Distracted driving is the cause of all types of accidents, from fender-benders to fatalities. Motorcyclists have double duty watching the road ahead and keeping a close eye on other drivers around them. Driving with attention on the road and not on your mobile device saves lives.
At Tison Law Group, we are attorneys who fight for the rights of those who have suffered personal injury or loss due to wrongful death. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident and sustained injuries, contact us for a consultation. We pride ourselves on being a law firm that is known for honesty, integrity and excellence.
