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3 Tips to Avoid Fourth of July Motorcycle Accidents
Fourth of July weekend is nearly upon us and with it comes millions of drivers. Whether you’re in a car or on a motorcycle, the dangers of being involved in an accident are elevated during summer holidays such as Independence Day. A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration study revealed that 4,586 lives were lost in 2014 due to motorcycle accidents and 92,000 were injured.
Our motorcycle accident attorney wants you to remember these three tips when you hit the open road this Fourth of July:
1. Wear a Helmet
Florida Helmet Laws require any motorcyclists under the age of 21 to wear a helmet while operating a motorcycle. If you’re 21 or older, you may be eligible for a helmet exemption if your insurance covers a minimum of $10,000 in medical expenses. However, even if you do have a helmet exemption, it’s best to wear a helmet and practice safe driving. You’re much more likely to lose your life or at least suffer severe injuries such as a traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury. Don’t put your life at risk when safety is as simple as a helmet.
2. Resist Weaving Through Traffic
Holiday weekends bring out millions of vacationers causing a large amount of highway congestion. It’s convenient for a motorcycle to squeeze between cars and bypass the traffic, but this also puts you in danger of an accident. Many cars and trucks have blind spots, and unfortunately, drivers are not always on the lookout for motorcyclists. Don’t weave through traffic, and keep a safe distance from the cars near you.
3. Follow the Speed Limit
It’s easy to get caught up in the moment with the wind in your face while you take in the Florida views of the ocean, but you’re more likely to wipe out or cause an accident. Practice the safe driving lessons you learned during your training through the Florida Rider Program or Basic Riders Course.
We hope you enjoy your Fourth of July weekend, and remember to drive safely.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, please call Colling Gilbert Wright in Orlando today at (407) 712-7300. Our motorcycle accident attorney serves clients in Orlando, Florida and nationwide.
