Some groups of bikers think so. Over the month of April, a number of events have been organized by motorcycle groups, lobbying against red light cameras – and for tougher rules against drivers who cause fatal Florida car accidents. On April 11, for example, more than one hundred motorcycle enthusiasts met at Florida’s state capital for a peaceful demonstration to make lawmakers aware of their requests.
Many motorcycle riders, for example, want mandatory jail time for motorists who cause fatal Florida car accidents. According to some bike riders, some motorists are far too casual about safety, causing accidents that kill others. This is especially notable in cases of Florida pedestrian accidents, motorcycle accidents, and bicycle accidents, where the motorist is protected by their vehicle but the pedestrian, motorcyclist or bicyclist often suffers severe injuries or fatalities. Some bikers believe that mandatory sentencing would make motorists take their responsibilities behind the wheel more seriously.
Some motorists also want to see red light cameras eliminated. They believe that such cameras cause speeding motorists to brake suddenly, which can lead to an increase in motorcycle and car accidents in Florida. Some motorcyclists, however, who do support tougher car accident laws do not oppose red light cameras. They claim that red light runners are as dangerous to motorcycle riders – and other cars – as sudden stops caused by people trying to avoid a fine.
State Representative Jimmy Patronis has stated that he also has serious concerns about red light cameras after seeing studies suggesting that they can increase rear-end collisions. On the other hand, other studies do suggest that red light cameras use can reduce other accidents – such as t-bone accidents – caused by motorists running traffic lights. Many legislators are divided about the issue, although many note that red light cameras can help bring in revenues which can be put towards traffic safety.
Whether caused by red light runners or sudden stops at red lights, however, car accidents at traffic lights do more harm to motorcyclists than motorists. Motorcyclists colliding with a car are more likely to suffer severe injuries, such as spinal cord injuries, amputation, severe head injuries, and other severe and potentially life-threatening injuries. This is because motorcyclists are more likely to be thrown from their bikes than motorists are to be ejected from their vehicles. As well, the larger size of the passenger car and the smaller amount of protection available to motorcyclists contributes to fatalities.
If you have been injured in a Florida motorcycle accident, contact the Flaxman Law Group. With a live person available to answer your calls 24/7, the Flaxman Law Group cares about your wellbeing and ensures that you get instant assistance. With decades of experience in South Florida personal injury claims and thousands of cases successfully concluded, the Flaxman Law Group law team has extensive experience they can put to work for you. Call the Flaxman Law Group today to set up a free initial consultation to discuss your case.