Safety Tips To Prevent Pinellas County Motorcycle Accidents
Fall is a great time of the year for motorcycle riding in Pinellas County. However, whether you ride as a hobby or a primary means of transportation, it is important to use caution. Motorcycle crashes in our area can cause devastating harm. Our Seminole motorcycle accident attorney wants you to be aware of the risks and ways to protect yourself.
Two Motorcyclists Killed In Clearwater Crash
Pinellas County plays host to a variety of motorcycle events throughout the fall season. These range from rides and poker runs organized by small, local groups to the St. Pete Bikefest, which draws in thousands of bikers from all over the country each November. While traffic congestion may have eased up since the summer, it is still important to be aware of hazards posed by other motorists.
According to an October 2023 WFLA news report, two motorcyclists were recently killed in a Clearwater crash. It happened on a Sunday afternoon, on the Courtney Campbell Causeway. Police claim the two bikers were traveling east and at a high rate of speed when one of them crashed into a Hyundai stopped in the median lane. The impact caused them to collide into the other biker as well, leaving both with fatal injuries. The driver of the Hyundai was not harmed.
Motorcyclists are warned against dangerous behavior that could put them at risk. However, the biggest hazards often come from other drivers. Many fail to realize how their actions impact bikers. Motorcycles typically require more time to come to a stop, are less maneuverable, and their open nature makes severe injuries more likely. Reckless behavior on the part of other drivers that makes motorcycle accidents in Pinellas County more likely to occur includes:
- Cutting motorcyclists off in traffic;
- Failing to yield;
- Following too closely;
- Failing to indicate when stopping or making turns;
- Driving over posted speed limits, running red lights, and ignoring other traffic regulations.
Protect Yourself When Riding
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reports that close to 500 motorcycle accidents in Pinellas County happen each year. These claim the lives of more than two dozen people, which is an average of two fatal victims each month.
While the fall season is perfect for riding and local events provide plenty of opportunities for fun and camaraderie with other bikers, motorcyclists are encouraged to take precautions. These include:
- Make sure your motorcycle matches your size and skill level;
- Take a motorcycle safety course to refresh your skills;
- Wear a helmet, boots, gloves, and other safety gear;
- Follow all traffic rules and regulations;
- Give other motorists plenty of space;
- Never operate a motorcycle if you have any amount of alcohol in your system.
Request A Consultation With Our Pinellas County Motorcycle Accident Attorney
At the Reep Law Firm, we protect the rights of motorcycle accident victims in Pinellas County and their families, helping them get the compensation they are entitled to in a claim. To request a consultation, call or contact our Seminole motorcycle accident attorney online today.
Sources:
saintpetebikefest.com/
wfla.com/news/pinellas-county/1-dead-1-hospitalized-in-3-vehicle-crash-on-courtney-campbell-causeway/
flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2020.pdf
