According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 4,957 motorcycle fatalities and 93,000 motorcycle injuries in 2012.  Riding is a great recreational activity and an exhilarating way to see the beautiful landscapes that Florida has to offer.  But riding can be dangerous, and motorcyclists face unique dangers.  Not all motorists pay attention to motorcyclists, and riders are taught unique defense driving skills.  In addition, motorcyclists are exposed, and without the proper precautions are prone to severe injury.  Most vehicles act as a protective cage during a collision, whereas riders are often thrown from their motorcycle.

Safety is paramount and riders should take precautions.  Wearing a helmet could make the difference in an accident.  According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Highway Loss Data Institute, “helmets are about 37 percent effective in preventing motorcycle deaths and about 67 percent effective in preventing brain injuries.”  In 2005, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that “the potential lifesaving benefits of helmets are not being realized, as fatalities continue to rise in response to declining helmet usage rates.”  In 2017, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention wrote that “if all motorcyclists would have worn helmets in 2015, 740 more could have been saved.”

The statistics confirm what most would consider common sense.  Reasonable protective measures can make the difference in the event of a crash.  Abrasion-resistant pants can prevent or reduce further injury to your skin, especially in the event of a high-speed crash or collision.  You should also consider wearing protective eye gear, long sleeve jacket, boots, and gloves.  Do not exchange safety for convenience or comfort while riding.  Proper safety gear will not prevent an accident, and it may not prevent an injury.  But wearing safety gear could significantly reduce or prevent injuries.

If you have been injured, contact Bryan W. Crews today, your Pine Hills personal injury attorney.  In addition to the trauma of an accident, dealing with insurance companies or the party responsible for the accident can be taxing.  The Pine Hills professionals at Bryan W. Crews will evaluate your personal injury claim for free and zealously advocate on your behalf.  Supporting your claim may require the collection of police reports, witness statements, photographs, video, accident reconstruction, expert witnesses, and the review of medical records.  In addition, motorcyclists are not covered by Personal Injury Insurance Protection.  This could complicate matters further.  Do not hesitate to contact our offices for a review of your case.  Each case is different, and results are not guaranteed.