There is nothing quite like the feeling of riding down the open road on a motorcycle with the wind in your hair and nothing between you and the nature around you. Unfortunately, having nothing around you can also be potentially catastrophic should you be the victim in a motorcycle accident.
According to statistics, 469 people were killed in motorcycle accidents in 2005 just in Florida. Sadly, at least 80% of all motorcycles crashes result in severe injury or death to the motorcyclist. The mere fact that motorcycles are smaller than other motorized vehicles makes for an easy miss by drivers of passenger and commercial vehicles. Add to that the relative quickness of a motorcyclist when moving between lanes and around vehicles and it is truly amazing more riders aren’t injured or killed.
It is the responsibility of every driver of every vehicle on the road to be aware of what is happening around them. While it is true that some motorcyclists drive too fast, studies show that most accidents involving motorcycles and other motorized vehicles are caused by the carelessness of the driver of the passenger or commercial vehicle. That carelessness, or negligence, does not just include striking the motorcycle. Some motorists feel that sharing the road with a motorcycle is not acceptable and will swerve toward riders as they pass. If that action causes the motorcyclist to lost control of the bike and crash, the passing driver could be found negligent and would be held responsible for all damages sustained due to his or her actions.
Whether a motorcyclist is involved in a crash with another vehicle or not, the resulting injuries can be devastating. Injuries can include any or all of the following:
• Broken arms, hands, legs, feet
• Back and neck injuries
• Burns from sliding on asphalt, gravel or pavement
• Head injuries
• Death
Wearing the proper clothing while riding a motorcycle can help lessen the severity of injuries sustained as the result of an accident, but the clothes can’t protect you from the negligent drivers around you. You can still be very seriously injured, even if you are wearing a helmet and protective clothing.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured or died as the result of a motorcycle accident in the Orlando, Florida area, please visit the website of The Florida Firm for additional information.
