Friday, March 29, 2024
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Watch for Vulnerable Riders

Florida-Motorcycle-InsuranceMotorcycles are an appealing mode of transportation for several reasons: they get nice gas mileage, they are affordable, you pay less with motorcycle insurance than with car insurance and you can ride in the High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane.

“Florida is a great state for riding motorcycles. It offers scenic back roads and picturesque coastline. The terrain is mostly flat with occasional curves and good corners,” says Dustyn Shroff, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance. The freedom you feel when you ride is a big draw, but this pleasure can come at a cost.

Motorcycle riders have the same rights and privileges as other drivers on the road. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents almost always end in injury leading to extensive medical attention. The Florida Department of Transportation, reports that a large number of motorcycle crashes come down to car drivers having poor speed and spatial judgement as well as drivers not seeing motorcyclists.

Motorists can help prevent motorcycle accidents by observing to the following tips:

  • Watch aggressively for motorcycles
  • Check blind spots
  • Do not share lanes with a motorcycle
  • Leave at least 4 seconds between your vehicle and the motorcycle ahead of you
  • Watch before turning left
  • Always use your signal before changing lanes

Being on a motorcycle will leave you more exposed than being in a car, leaving motorcycle riders more vulnerable on roadways. Some differences between cars and motorcycles include the following:

  • Motorcycles have no restraints or seatbelts
  • Motorcycles weigh much less than other vehicles
  • Motorcycles are small and slim making it difficult for other drivers to see, especially when they are in a blind spot.
  • Motorcycles are more vulnerable to road obstructions and impediments such as road debris, pot holes and puddles.
  • Motorcycles are less stable than a car and require a rider to constantly maintain balance.
  • When riding a motorcycle your body parts such as skin, face and joints are exposed, so even in a minor accident they can suffer painful injuries.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC reports, motorcyclist involved in an accident experience common injuries such as bone fractures and most commonly broken legs. Other injuries are numerous and can include: wrist, arm, shoulder and pelvis fractures, road rash or skin abrasions, ranging from mild to severe. Also, head and traumatic brain injuries. While wearing a helmet can reduce injuries, this is the leading cause of death and disability in motorcycle accidents.

Make sure as a motorist, you are respectful and share the road with motorcycle riders. If you need car insurance or motorcycle insurance, GreatFlorida Insurance agents can create custom motorcycle insurance coverage to fit your lifestyle, regardless of the type of bike you ride, call us today.

watch-for-motorcycles

 

 

Dustyn Shroff
Dustyn Shroffhttp://www.greatflorida.com
Vice President at GreatFlorida Insurance

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