Motorcycle accidents are common in Florida, with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reporting that the state has the highest crash rate in the United States. These accidents tend to be quite serious in nature, as motorcyclists lack the same protections as those afforded to the drivers and passengers of other vehicles.
The following are some of the most common situations in which motorcycle accidents occur in Florida:
- Head-on collisions: The most common type of motorcycle crash, a head-on collision is also the most likely to be fatal to the rider. Rear-end accidents are far less common, although they do occur periodically.
- Left-hand turns: The drivers of passenger vehicles often fail to account for motorcycles, which are smaller and more difficult to see, when making left-hand turns. The car may hit the motorcycle when the rider is moving straight through an intersection or when the rider is attempting to overtake or pass the car.
- Lane-splitting: This typically occurs in heavy traffic, when motorcyclists attempt to move in between lanes to pass other vehicles. It creates a dangerous situation because drivers are not expecting the maneuver, and they may change lanes or turn directly into the path of the rider.
- Poor road conditions: Poorly maintained roads or inclement weather can present significant hazards for motorcyclists, as they may be unable to maintain control of their bikes. In many cases, no other vehicles are involved in these crashes.
- Speeding or reckless driving: Everyone using Florida’s roads and highways — including drivers and riders — must obey traffic laws and posted speed limits. Motorcycle accidents occurring at high speeds are more likely to result in fatality for the rider.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident you believe was the fault of another party, reach out to a skilled Bradenton personal injury attorney with Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh right away.