Motorcycle Accidents
CAPE CORAL, FORT MYERS, LEE COUNTY, FLORIDA
More people are riding motorcycles on the nation's highways and roads than ever before. With the added number of motorcyclists comes the added chance that they will be involved in a traffic accident.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)'s latest motorcycle accident statistics, in 2006:
- 4,810 motorcyclists were killed
- 88,000 motorcyclists were injured
- 72% of motorcycle accidents ended with fatalities
- Motorcyclists are 35 times more likely to die and eight times more likely to be injured than occupants in passenger cars
- Only three percent of all registered motorists on the road ride motorcycles, yet make up eight percent of all traffic fatalities
- 25% of all motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes were not driving with a valid license
Those fortunate enough to survive a motorcycle accident may sustain serious injuries, including brain injuries, paralysis, crushed or broken bones, and more. These injuries may take months or years to recover from. Some people may never recover at all.
The reason for so many serious injuries is that motorcycles are not insulated from damage the way other vehicles are, which leaves the rider vulnerable if they are involved in an accident. Other factors that contribute to such a high incidence of death and serious injury include:
- Speed
- Alcohol
- Inexperience
- Not wearing a helmet
Helmet Law
In Florida, you are not required to wear a helmet if you are at least 21-years-old. While wearing a helmet is a personal choice, most motorcycle accident fatalities occur as a result of head injuries. NHTSA statistics show that roughly 750 people would still be alive had they worn a helmet when they were involved in an accident in 2006.
Due to the size and shape of motorcycles, they are harder to see on the road, so they are more likely to be cut off or forced off the road than cars or trucks. However, if you are involved in a motorcycle accident that was not your fault, before doing anything you need to seek medical attention. The next step is to get the insurance information from the other party involved, just as you would if you were involved in an auto accident.
If you, or a loved one, have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be facing medical treatment for your injuries, mounting medical bills, insurance problems, and other life-changing issues. If you live in the Cape Coral, Fort Myers, or Lee County, Florida region, and you aren’t sure what to do, please contact the law offices of Lusk, Drasites, Tolisano & Smith, P.A. We can help to determine what your best course of action should be.
