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Common Risks of Riding a Motorcycle

There’s no doubt that riding a motorcycle can be a thrilling experience. However, there are also some risks associated with it. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common risks associated with riding a motorcycle. We’ll also provide tips on how to reduce your risk of being involved in an accident.

At The Fran Haasch Law Group, we are heavily involved in the community of amazing bikers throughout the Tampa Bay area and all of Florida. We want motorcycle enthusiasts to ride safe and stay legal. Knowing the dangers of riding motorcycles is the best way to ensure you’re prepared to face them.

How Common Are Motorcycle Accidents in Florida?

Motorcycle accidents are unfortunately quite common in Florida. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were nearly 9,000 motorcycle accidents in the state in 2019 alone. That’s an average of about 24 accidents per day! And these numbers have been steadily increasing over the past few years.

Is Riding a Motorcycle Dangerous?

Unfortunately, yes, riding a motorcycle can be dangerous. Motorcycles are much smaller and less visible than passenger cars, making them harder for other drivers to see. Additionally, motorcycles don’t have the same safety features as cars, such as airbags and seat belts. And motorcycles provide very little protection to riders in an accident.

What Are the Risks of Riding a Motorcycle?

There are a few risks associated with riding a motorcycle.

Collisions With Another Vehicle

One of the most common risks of riding a motorcycle is being involved in a collision with another vehicle. This can occur when another driver fails to see the motorcycle and turns into its path. Crashes between motorcycles and other vehicles often result in serious injuries or even death for the motorcycle rider.

Road Hazards

Another common risk of riding a motorcycle is road hazards. This can include potholes, debris, or even animals. Hitting a road hazard can cause the motorcycle to lose control and crash. This can often result in serious injuries for the rider.

Mechanical Problems

Another risk associated with riding a motorcycle is mechanical problems. This can include a flat tire or engine failure. Mechanical problems can often lead to motorcycle crashes, and they can be especially dangerous if they occur while the motorcycle is in motion.

Fatal Crashes

In 2019, almost 600 riders in Florida died in collisions involving motorcycles. Per vehicle miles traveled, motorcyclists are about 29 times more likely than people in passenger cars to die in a crash. Because motorcycle riders do not have the same protections as passenger vehicle occupants, motorcyclists are more likely to be ejected from the vehicle and sustain serious injuries.

Lack of Protection Against Debris

Motorcycles provide very little protection to riders in the event of an accident. Motorcycle riders are exposed to the elements and risk being hit by flying debris or other objects. This is more likely to occur on highways or other busy roads where there is a lot of traffic.

High-Risk Behavior

Certain behaviors can increase the risk of being involved in a motorcycle crash. For example, speeding is one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents. Speeding makes it more difficult for the rider to control the motorcycle and increases the chances of losing control or being involved in a collision.

Drunk Driving

Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is another high-risk behavior that can lead to motorcycle accidents. Forty-two percent of motorcycle deaths occurred because the riders were alcohol-impaired. Alcohol and drugs can impair a rider’s ability to operate a motorcycle safely. It is more difficult to control the bike and more likely to be involved in an accident when riding under the influence.

Distracted Drivers

Distracted drivers are another hazard on the roadways. Distracted driving is any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the task of driving. This can include talking on the phone, texting, eating, or even changing the radio station.

Drivers who are distracted are more likely to cause a crash, which is especially true for motorbike riders. This is because motorcycles are much smaller than other motor vehicles on the road and can be easily missed by a distracted driver.

Poor Maintenance

Another risk of riding a motorcycle is poor maintenance. This can include bald tires, loose handlebars, or broken headlights. When a bike is not properly maintained, it can be more difficult to control and more likely to break down. This can lead to motorbike accidents and even injuries for the rider.

Bad Weather Conditions

Bad weather conditions are another risk of riding a motorcycle. This can include wet, slick roads, high winds, or even ice. When the weather is bad, it can cause the rider to lose control of their motorcycle, making them more likely to be involved in a traffic crash.

Inexperienced Riders

Inexperienced motorcycle riders are another risk on the roadways. This is because inexperienced riders may not have the skills or knowledge to operate a motorcycle safely. When inexperienced riders get on a bike, they are more likely to make mistakes and be involved in an accident.

Are Motorcycles Worth the Risk?

Motorcycles can be a fun and exciting way to get around. They can also help you save money on gas and travel time. But, it is important to remember that motorcycles come with inherent risks. For some people, the risks of riding a motorcycle are worth the rewards. Before getting on a motorcycle, make sure you understand the risks and take steps to minimize them.

Wear Protective Gear

One of the best ways to reduce the risks of riding a motorcycle is to wear the proper gear. This includes things like a helmet, gloves, and sturdy clothing. Wearing the proper gear can help protect you in an accident and may even save your life.

Take a Motorcycle Safety Course

Another way to reduce the risks of riding a motorcycle is to take a motorcycle safety course. These courses can teach you the skills and knowledge you need to operate a motorcycle safely. They can also help you learn how to avoid accidents.

Follow the Rules of the Road

When you are riding a motorcycle, it is important to follow the rules of the road. This includes obeying the speed limit and using turn signals. By following the rules of the road, you can help reduce your chances of being involved in an accident.

Stay Focused and Be Aware of Your Surroundings

When you are riding a motorcycle, it is important to stay focused and be aware of your surroundings. This means not being distracted by things like your phone or the radio. It also means being on the lookout for other vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles on the road. By staying focused and being aware of your surroundings, you can help avoid accidents.

Prepare to Ride in All Weather Conditions

One of the best ways to reduce the risks of riding a motorcycle is to be prepared to ride in all weather conditions. This means having the proper gear for all types of weather. It also means knowing how to operate your motorcycle in all types of weather.

Check Your Motorcycle Before Riding

Another way to reduce the risks of riding a motorcycle is to check your motorcycle before riding. Check your motorcycle’s tire pressure, hand and foot brakes, headlights, and signal indicators before you ride. You should also check for signs of oil or gas leaks and if you’re carrying cargo, make sure it is secured and balanced properly on your bike.

Ride Defensively

One of the best ways to reduce the risks of riding a motorcycle is to ride defensively. This means being aware of other vehicles on the road and being prepared to take evasive action if necessary.

The risks of riding a motorcycle are real, but there are ways to minimize them. If you are considering getting a motorcycle, make sure you understand the risks and take steps to reduce them.

Need a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?

If you were injured or your loved one was killed in a motorcycle accident, reach out to the personal injury team at The Fran Haasch Law Group. With over 20 years of experience, we are capable of handling even very complex and serious claims. Our Clearwater motorcycle accident attorneys work with medical experts and accident reconstruction specialists in order to determine how the accident occurred, who is liable, and the full extent of your injuries. From there, our team fights to help you recover the maximum compensation you are owed.

For an evaluation, call us at (727) 784-8191 or contact us online today. We serve clients in Clearwater and throughout the Greater Tampa Bay Region and beyond.

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