Motorcycling Without a Helmet Linked to a Rise in Fatalities

Motorcycling has long been linked to accidental deaths, but recent stats published in South Florida indicate that many motorcyclists are risking their lives needlessly by riding without a helmet. Florida is now the most dangerous state in the US to ride a motorcycle, even though, thanks to the warm climate, it’s one of the nicest states to ride.

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Fatalities rose by 30% between 2014 and 2015. There was a total of 606 fatalities, some of which were caused by riders ditching their helmets in favor of feeling the wind in their hair. Research carried out by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) backs this up – researchers discovered that a mere 47% of motorcyclists wore helmets when they hit the road in Florida, despite knowing how dangerous it is. Indeed, experts say that wearing a protective helmet can prevent serious brain injuries in 67% of accidents and fatalities in 37%.

Why Are Riders Not Wearing Helmets?

Although there are laws in place in 28 states that require motorcyclists to wear helmets, Florida is not one of them. Florida lawmakers scrapped their helmet law back in 2000, and since then, increasing numbers of motorcyclists have stopped wearing a safety helmet.

Motorcycles are far more dangerous than cars. They are less visible in the road, especially in bad weather conditions, and if a motorcyclist is forced to swerve or brake hard to avoid an obstacle in the road, he is more likely to crash and sustain serious injuries. NHTSA data shows that in 2016, motorcycles accidents were 28 times higher than automobile accidents per mile.

Riding a motorcycle with antilock brakes helps to prevent accidents but the overriding message from safety experts is that all riders should wear a safety helmet.

When Accidents Happen

The sad truth is, however, even when motorcyclists ride responsibly and wear helmets, they are still vulnerable on the road. The majority of accidents happen because other motorists are not paying due care and attention. They pull out of junctions and don’t spot a motorcyclist coming or they don’t give them enough room when overtaking.

The biggest problem motorcyclists face is that they don’t have the same protection as a car or truck driver; even when wearing a helmet. If a car driver is involved in a collision, he is protected by the rigid frame of the vehicle, as well as airbags and other safety equipment. A motorcyclist has nothing apart from his helmet, gloves, body armor, and boots. And if he’s not wearing any of that because it’s a hot day and he wants to look cool in front of the girls, then his injuries will probably be catastrophic.

Hire a Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Motorcycle accidents can be devastating, so it’s essential that you hire an experienced attorney if you are involved in an accident that is not your fault. Your attorney can deal with the insurance companies and help you get the compensation you deserve.

Don’t become another statistic – always wear safety gear, even on a hot day, and pay close attention to other road users.