The Orlando Sentinel reports Florida as having the highest rate of motorcycle fatalities in the United States. According to the article, which cites a recent AAA study, "the number of motorcycles account for 3 percent of registered vehicles, yet they are involved in 20 percent of vehicle fatalities in the state."
A motorcycle accident can be caused by a number of factors, including poor roadway conditions, road debris, and driver inattention. However, one of the most common causes of a motorcycle crash is sudden stops. If a car traveling in front of a motorcycle makes a sudden stop, the motorcycle rider has little time to respond and may end up colliding with the vehicle in front of them.
A rider may be thrown from his or her bike and hit another vehicle, road sign, the road itself, or other objects near the road. Because of the lack of protection offered by a motorcycle, injuries are likely to be severe and can even be fatal.
Common motorcycle injuries from sudden stop motorcycle accidents can include:
No matter how cautious you may be, sudden stop accidents happen. Obeying the rules of the road and wearing proper protective gear can help to mitigate your injuries. The following motorcycle riding safety tips may help you stay safer on the road
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) Motorcycle Handbook offers more valuable information on Florida traffic law, licensing and motorcycle safety and collision avoidance.
Under Florida law, only vehicles that are defined as motor vehicles are entitled to personal injury protection (PIP) benefits on auto insurance policies. Because motorcycles are not classified as motor vehicles, motorcyclists or their passengers are not entitled to PIP benefits for their injuries. However, they can purchase optional medical payment coverage, which covers accident-related medical expenses up to policy limits.
If someone else’s negligence caused your sudden stop motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. After an accident, it is vital to seek the counsel of an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Florida.
If you have been injured or have suffered the wrongful death of a loved one in a motorcycle accident, our knowledgeable and compassionate personal injury and motorcycle accident attorneys will fight for your rights and provide the personal attention you need to help you receive the compensation you deserve. To schedule a consultation with a motorcycle accident attorney, contact Lowman Law Firm at 352-888-4484 or toll-free at 866-9-LOWMAN.