Motorcycle Accident Fatalities Decreased Slightly Last Year

The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) reports that motorcyclist fatalities were projected to have decreased in 2013 by about 7 percent. With states only reporting the first nine months of traffic deaths so far last year, the GHSA was unable to definitively state that there was a decrease, although all projections showed that it was very likely.

Although this is good news for motorcyclists, it does not mean that overall motorcycle safety has necessary improved. The more important statistic to note is the projected number of fatalities for 2013, which was at 4,610. Considering that motorcycles make up such a small percentage of highway vehicles, the number of fatalities is disproportionately high. This is due in large part to other drivers’ failure to take safety precautions when sharing the road with motorcyclists.

For example, many drivers of larger motor vehicles fail to watch out for motorcycles when changing lanes or turning. This is exacerbated by distracted driving, especially the use of cell phones when a car is in motion. 

Motorcyclists are also to blame for a significant number of these crashes. Motorcycle riders must observe posted speed limit signs and pay close attention to road conditions to avoid wipeouts. It’s important to note that, according to the GHSA, 35 percent of motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes were speeding at the time— and half of those accidents didn’t involve another vehicle.

All motorists need to do their part to make roads and highways in Florida and across the U.S. safer for all types of vehicles, including motorcycles. If you’ve been injured in one of these crashes, contact a respected Citrus County accident lawyer right away.