Defensive Driving Tips for Florida Motorcyclists

Many motorcycle accidents occur in Florida because drivers of other vehicles fail to see the motorcycle in time to avoid a crash. Because motorcycles are smaller and have a much narrower wheel base than other motor vehicles on the highway, they seem invisible to some motorists. Motorcyclists should assume that other drivers do not see them and focus on driving defensively.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a Florida motorcycle accident caused by another driver, it’s important to talk to an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to understand your legal rights. I am attorney Philip DeBerard. I have more than three decades of experience representing people seriously injured in motorcycle accidents caused by other motorists.  At the law firm of Philip DeBerard, Injury Attorney, we will evaluate your accident free of charge and explain your legal rights. We have convenient offices throughout Florida and the Treasure Coast.

Call (877) 536-1911 to speak with a motorcycle accident attorney at the law firm of Philip DeBerard, Injury Attorney, or fill out our online contact form.

Why Motorcyclists Should Focus on Defensive Driving

Motorcycles are smaller and less visible on Florida roads and highways than cars and trucks are, so motorcyclists must anticipate situations that lead to crashes and try to avoid them. Whether you’re in Stuart, Palm Beach, or Okeechobee, driving defensively is the best way to avoid injuries in motorcycle accidents.

Here are 10 motorcycle safety defensive driving tips.

• Be especially alert at intersections because most crashes involving motorcycles and other vehicles occur at intersections.
• Motorcyclists should not ride in a car or truck’s blind spot.
• Wear a helmet and bright, reflective clothing to make your motorcycle more visible to other motorists.
• Use your motorcycle headlight day and night.
• Use signals when changing lanes, check the motorcycle’s side view mirror and make a visual check to double check that it’s safe.
• Avoid sudden braking or turning.
• Beware of riding a motorcycle in inclement weather or on slippery surfaces.
• Watch out for road hazards, including uneven pavement, standing water, oil slicks, potholes, loose gravel and debris.
• Assume that drivers backing out of driveways or parking spaces DO NOT see you.
• Be aware that riding with a passenger requires even more skill than riding alone.

More than 8,200 motorcyclists and motorcycle passengers were injured in crashes in Florida and 402 died in motorcycle accidents in 2009, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Many of these crashes were avoidable accidents caused by other motorists who did not see the motorcyclists.

Contact a Florida Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you or a family member has suffered a serious injury in a motorcycle crash caused by another motorist, contact an experienced Florida motorcycle accident attorney. Motorcycle riders who are injured by another motorist can seek compensation for your injuries. I am attorney Philip DeBerard. I have focused my legal practice exclusively on representing victims of serious accidents and injuries caused by the negligence of others, including motorcycle crashes. I was one of the first lawyers in Florida to be board-certified as a civil trial lawyer. My legal skill has received the highest AV preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the most recognized national legal directory.

I take pride in leading a team of hard-working attorneys, paralegals and staff who provide caring, one-on-one service to clients across South Florida and the Treasure Coast. At the law firm of Philip DeBerard, Injury Attorney, we represent motorcycle accident victims in Stuart, Port St. Lucie, Jupiter, Okeechobee, Palm Beach, Fort Pierce and Vero Beach. We will evaluate your case free of charge and explain your legal rights. We will not charge any attorney fee unless we secure compensation for you.

Call (877) 536-1911 to speak with a motorcycle accident attorney at the law firm of Philip DeBerard, Injury Attorney, or fill out our online contact form.