Did you know that one in every five people killed in highway crashes in Florida is on a motorcycle, even though motorcyclists represent only seven percent of licensed motorists?
According to the most recent statistics provided by a 2013 NHTSA traffic study, Florida leads the nation in motorcycle deaths, with 462 deaths in 2013 alone. And if the past few weeks are any indication, 2016 is proving to be a dangerous year for Florida bikers as well.
In the first 10 weeks of the year, there have been nearly 20 accidents in which motorcyclists were killed in the Pasco, Pinellas, and Hillsborough counties. The past two weeks alone have been extremely difficult for riders in the Tampa Bay area. So far, the average in Florida is one fatality every four days. If this trend continues, more than 90 motorcyclists will be killed throughout the course of the year, a significant increase over the tri-county average of 73 deaths per year.
The Helmet Wearing Controversy
Florida no longer requires motorcyclists to wear helmets. Since the repeal of the helmet law, motorcycle accident deaths have more than doubled in the state. A survey conducted by AAA has revealed that one-third of riders do not believe that they should be required to wear one.
According to national statistics, helmets saved the lives of approximately 1,630 motorcyclists in 2013, and it is estimated that if all riders had worn head protection that year, an additional 715 lives could have been saved.
100+ Years Experience Helping Injured Motorcyclists in Tampa
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, turn to the Tampa accident attorneys at The Florida Law Group. We have obtained millions of dollars in recoveries and settlements for injured people throughout our decades of practice. When you choose to work with our firm, your best interests are our number one priority. Our goal is to maximize your recovery and take care of all the paperwork while you focus on your recovery.
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