Motorcycle Awareness Month May Reduce Fort Lauderdale Accidents and Injuries
As the weather continues to warm up, more motorcyclists are taking to the streets in Florida and throughout this nation. Summertime is a dangerous time for motorcycles to be on the road. Although motorcycles have the same rights and privileges as other motor vehicles, they are more vulnerable to serious injuries and fatalities on the roadway.
Because more motorcyclists are riding during the summertime, the National Highway Traffic Safety (NHTSA) has designated the month of May as national Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Since the month of May is the month prior to the official start of summer, governmental agencies and local authorities want to use this time to remind motorists to share the road with motorcycles the entire summer season and throughout the year.
During this month, motorists will continually be reminded to “Watch for Motorcycles” in observance of Motorcycle Awareness Month. By being alert on the road, looking over one’s shoulder and signaling before changing lanes, drivers may be able to help keep motorcyclists safe and free of serious injuries and fatalities.
Motorcycle Crash Statistics
In 2011, there were 671 motorcycle crashes that resulted in 644 serious injuries and 82 fatalities. Because of these high statistics, the Department of Transportation (DOT) would like to remind motorcyclists to wear motorcycle helmets in order to reduce the chance of a head or brain injury and to wear the proper protective gear to protect the body from road rash and lacerations. Although not all injuries, such as broken bones, broken collarbones and internal injuries can be prevented, some injuries can be reduced by wearing the proper gear.
Additionally, motorcycle riders should make sure they are visible to other motorists. Since motorcycles are smaller and harder to spot than other vehicles on the road, motorcyclists need to follow at a safe distance and be extra alert while riding.
It Takes Two
Sharing the road does not entirely rest on one party. In fact, sharing the road is the responsibility of both the motorcyclists and drivers of other motor vehicles. Because motorcycle accidents in South Florida produce serious injuries and fatalities, it is reason enough to make sure all drivers want to do what they can to prevent a Florida motorcycle accident from occurring.
If you have been injured in a Broward County motorcycle accident, you need to talk with a skilled motorcycle accident lawyer in Fort Lauderdale to find out about your rights to seek compensation. You can reach the Law Offices of David Benenfeld at 954-677-0155 to request a free consultation with a knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney today.
