When handled properly, a motorcycle can be a safe mode of transportation. For that to happen, though, motorcyclists and vehicle drivers must share roads responsibly. A Fort Lauderdale car accident law firm can provide valuable insights on riding safe and riding smart.
A Fort Lauderdale injury lawyer who represents vehicle and motorcycle accident victims can identify common causes of accidents. They can also provide tips and techniques for both kinds of drivers to help avoid accidents and make Florida roads safe. If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle accident, they can also help you seek financial compensation at no out-of-pocket cost to you.
Car Accident Prevention Tips for Motorcycle and Vehicle Drivers in Fort Lauderdale
Most drivers have heard many riding safely tips and strategies for avoiding car accidents. However, an important part of Fort Lauderdale car safety includes safely sharing the road with motorcyclists.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a leading cause of vehicle-versus-motorcycle collisions is the vehicle driver’s failure to spot a motorcycle while making a lefthand turn. Speeding and drug or alcohol overuse can also lead to accidents. Diligence on the part of both drivers can help reduce the number of collisions.
Avoid Inside and Outside Distractions While Driving
Sending or reading text messages is a common cause of distracted driving. Many other things, both inside and outside the vehicle, can take a driver’s attention off the road and the safe operation of their vehicle. Other common driver distractions include:
- Eating or drinking
- Talking to passengers
- Daydreaming
- Using navigation tools
- In-dash entertainment
- Grooming oneself
- Smoking or vaping
If a distracted driver caused an accident and you were injured, a personal injury attorney can help you build a solid collection of evidence and seek fair compensation.
Stay Off Fort Lauderdale Roads While Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol
A drunk or drugged driver cannot properly focus on the road or their car. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an intoxicated driver can experience:
- Slowed reaction times
- Faulty decision making
- Lack of coordination
- Visual distortions
- Lack of perception
- Impaired vision
Getting behind the wheel only when well-rested, alert, and unburdened by drugs or alcohol can prevent many dangerous behaviors and accidents.
Maintain a Safe Driving Distance From Cars, Motorcycles, and Bicycles
Most drivers know they should maintain a two-second gap between cars. However, motorcycles can ease into smaller spaces and be harder to see. Look to both sides and stay alert to motorcycles.
Florida’s temperate weather can mean motorcycles are on the road all year long. Staying alert and perceptive can help you avoid colliding with or inadvertently dooring one.
Safe Riding Tips for Motorcyclists in Fort Lauderdale
Motorcycle riders are as responsible for safely sharing the roads as vehicle drivers and should take steps to increase their visibility and reduce the risk of accidents.
Protect Yourself by Wearing a Helmet and Protective Gear
In most situations, wearing a motorcycle helmet is mandatory in Fort Lauderdale, according to Florida Statutes § 316.211. Motorcycle injury claims frequently involve catastrophic head injuries, traumatic brain injuries, or fatalities. Donning the proper head and body protection can mitigate the damage in a collision.
Proper protection can also include a correctly sized helmet, protective clothing, gloves, boots, and eye protection.
Protect Others by Obeying Fort Lauderdale’s Rules of the Road for Motorcyclists
Lane splitting (driving between two cars) is dangerous. It is also illegal in Florida. Motorcycle riders are entitled to the full use of their lane. Splitting lanes can lead to rear-ending a vehicle and causing considerable damage and severe injuries.
The unpredictability of lane splitting can also catch a vehicle driver off guard, putting the motorcyclist in danger when merging or changing lanes. It can also mean the biker has limited space to make necessary maneuvers. Motorcyclists should avoid it for its hazards and its illegalities.
A Car Accident Attorney Serving Fort Lauderdale Can Help You Recover From an Accident
If you or someone you love was injured in a motorcycle accident, you can seek damages from the at-fault driver whose negligence caused your accident. Compensation your Fort Lauderdale motorcycle accident lawyer requests can include:
- Current and future medical bills
- Current and future lost income
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Property damage or destruction
- Diminished property value
- Disability and disfigurement
- Physical pain and suffering
- Mental and emotional distress
- Diminished quality of life
If a motorcycle accident caused your loved one’s death, your family can seek a range of wrongful death damages. These typically include funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial and familial support, and loss of consortium and companionship. Your lawyer will document the monetary value of your motorcycle injury claim.
Act Quickly to Avoid Jeopardizing Your Right to File a Civil Lawsuit in Florida
You generally have two years to file your personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit, according to Florida Statutes § 95.11. Complying with the statute of limitations is critical since you could lose the right to file your lawsuit if it expires.
It can be hard to comply on your own since the filing deadline can fluctuate based on various factors. The best way to ensure you interpret the statute of limitations accurately and protect your right to file a lawsuit is by letting a car accident lawyer serving Fort Lauderdale handle it for you.
Call (954) 633-8270 for Help With Your Fort Lauderdale Motorcycle Injury Claim
Riding safe and smart can help you enjoy traveling on your motorcycle without trouble. However, you can seek financial compensation if you or someone you love was injured in a motorcycle-versus-vehicle collision.
When you are ready to get compensation, our personal injury law firm is ready to provide legal guidance and support. Contact our legal team at the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato to get started today.
