At this time of year, there are more motorcycles on the road as tourists pour into Florida and as more people take advantage of the beautiful weather by taking out their motorcycles. Unfortunately, this can also mean more Fort Lauderdale motorcycle accidents. These types of Fort Lauderdale traffic accidents tend to be more serious than most two-vehicle Fort Lauderdale car accidents, largely because of the vulnerability of the motorcyclist. While motorists are protected by layers of glass and metal, there is very little protecting a motorcyclist in the event of a collision. However, there are many things that all motorcyclists and drivers can do to help prevent these types of accidents:
1) Invest in a good helmet if you are a motorcyclist. Fort Lauderdale head injuries are one of the most common types of injuries caused by motorcycle crashes in the area, and in many cases these injuries can be prevented or can be rendered less severe with the proper use of a helmet. A helmet can save you life, so if you ride a motorcycle invest in the best new helmet you can afford. Make sure that it fits correctly and that you wear it on every ride. If you are in a Fort Lauderdale motorcycle accident and you hit your head, make sure that you replace your helmet. Even if it appears fine, it can be damaged inside and provide less protection in a subsequent Fort Lauderdale car accident.
2) If you drive a car or truck, remember to share the road safely with motorcyclists. Give motorcyclists plenty of room, including their own lane. Never attempt to share the lane with motorcyclists – they have the same rights and privileges as any vehicle on the road. Keep in mind that motorcyclists can maneuver more easily and more quickly than cars or trucks. For this reason, you may wish to give them more room so that you can give them adequate space if they make an unexpected move.
3) Whether you drive a car, truck, or motorcycle, make sure your vehicle is safe and well-maintained. Correctly maintained vehicles with proper lights and mirrors are safer to drive and more likely to respond correctly if you need to avoid an accident.
4) Follow the rules of the road and drive courteously. Speeding, driving under the influence, and refusing to obey traffic signals or signs makes it harder for other drivers to predict your next move and increases your risk of a Fort Lauderdale truck accident or traffic accident.
5) Avoid distracted driving. Since motorcycles are smaller vehicles, they can easily hide in your blind spot. Being distracted in any way means that it easier for these vehicles to approach you without you being aware of it, increasing the risk of a serious accident. Putting mobile devices away before you get in the car and keeping your full focus on the road ensures that you can see all vehicles around you and this reduces your risk of a collision.
If you have been injured in a Fort Lauderdale traffic accident, contact the Flaxman Law Group today for a free accident consultation to discuss your injuries and future. The costs of a traffic accident can be substantial – there may be hospital bills to pay and considerable income loss as you recover from the accident. Protect yourself and your family by getting legal advice from the Flaxman Law Group before you make any decisions in your case.