Bradenton Motorcycle Accidents: Safety Tips To Reduce The Risks This Summer
The warm weather months are a popular time for motorcyclists. Starting in the spring and running throughout summer, there’s a wide range of motorcycle rallies, poker runs, and other fun events to attend throughout Florida and nearby states. However, before hitting the road, brush up on some safety tips.
National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is held annually and highlights the potential risks. Our experienced Bradenton motorcycle accident lawyer explains how crashes often happen and what riders can do to protect themselves.
Common Ways Manatee County Motorcycle Accidents Happen
Riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating, and there’s a strong sense of camaraderie among bikers. While they may look tough when cruising local roads, bikers are among the most vulnerable road users.
Even the largest motorcycle offers little protection in crashes and collisions involving motor vehicles. Florida’s Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reports that nearly 150 motorcycle accidents in Manatee County happen each year, averaging more than 10 per month. Reckless behavior by other drivers is often responsible. Among the most common ways Bradenton motorcycle accidents include:
- Front-end collisions occur when motorists make sudden stops or cut bikers off in traffic.
- Rear-end collisions caused by tailgating.
- Left-turn crashes due to drivers turning across a motorcyclist’s path at an intersection.
- Sideswipes when a driver changes lanes without checking blind spots and strikes a rider traveling alongside them.
- Dooring accidents occur when a parked driver opens a car door directly into a motorcyclist’s path.
Speeding, improper passing, distracted driving, and driving while impaired are all common factors in these crashes. When negligent motorists are responsible, you have the right to hold them liable in a claim.
Safety Tips Every Bradenton Motorcyclist Should Follow
Reckless drivers increased the risk of motorcycle accidents in Bradenton. To protect yourself and others on the road, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation recommends the following tips:
- Wear a helmet, which can prevent traumatic brain injuries, a common and potentially deadly hazard for bikers.
- Wear full protective gear, including a jacket, gloves, boots, and eye protection.
- Use caution near other motorists and don’t assume they see you (they often don’t).
- Be aware of driver blind spots, especially with SUVs, trucks, and other larger vehicles.
- Slow down and increase your following distance in traffic, at intersections, and in wet conditions.
- Never ride impaired, and watch for signs of fatigue on longer rides.
If you’re in a crash, notify law enforcement immediately, request medical care, and contact an experienced Bradenton motorcycle accident lawyer before speaking with any insurance company.
Contact Our Experienced Bradenton Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
Motorcycle accidents in Bradenton can change your life in an instant. When another driver’s reckless behavior is to blame, you have the right to hold them liable for your losses. At the Lavely Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges riders face in injury claims and act as a strong legal advocate on your side. To make a full recovery, contact our office. Request a consultation today with our experienced Bradenton motorcycle accident lawyer.
msf-usa.org/motorcycle-safety-awareness-month/
flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2022.pdf
