The Florida Landscape

The roads of Florida are not drastic, but they are certainly varied. While highways may have sharp turns and narrow curves, most Florida roads are long and straight. The state’s terrain does not grow higher than a few hundred feet above sea level, so there are few large hills in Florida. While straight roads may seem like an easier ride when compared to other types of roads, it can become an issue when the texture of the road itself interferes with your ride. Be on the lookout for debris on the road, such as shredded pieces of tires or glass. Know how your bike handles on various road types, such as dirt roads or different kinds of concrete.

If Florida’s weather were a person, it would be very moody. calm, collected, and sunny during the spring and autumn months, winter can become biting cold and summer washes away the season in downpours. In the summer, rain can last anywhere between mere minutes to days. While the weather may seem sunny when you begin the ride on your motorcycle, it can quickly grow dark, gray, and wet. From there, it can even return to its sunny weather. With unpredictable weather hovering over your head while on the road, it is best to be prepared for anything. Roads can become dangerously slippery when wet, which is never beneficial to a motorcyclist. When rains become heavy, or even if you do not feel safe on the road at any time, immediately pull over to the nearest shelter and wait it out. It is better to use your time in precaution than fear.

What You Should Know About Motorcycle Accidents

Statistics are always good to know when about to head out onto the open road. But you are an individual; a person with the ability to think, create, and take action. You are not a statistic. Knowing what the demographics are now can help you take appropriate cautionary measures when on the road.

Because most of the motorcycle riders are male, they make up the gender that mostly fall victim in accidents. The ages of most motorcycle fatalities range from twenty to twenty-four and fifty to fifty-four.

Safety gear is important! Road rash, facial scarring, fractures, dental damage, and spinal or head trauma may occur in an accident. Protect yourself at all times. Florida’s prime season for accidents runs from March to October, and all holidays.

Know where crashes are the most likely to occur and take the necessary precaution in your area. According to Florida’s 2010 Crash Statistic Report and The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, most fatalities occur in the following counties:

• Broward County
• Hillsborough County
• Miami Dade County
• Orange County
• Palm Beach County
• Pinellas County
• Volusia County

Keep this information in mind next time you mount your motorcycle. If you live in the counties mentioned, take extra precaution and avoid busy areas. Always stay alert and make the safest decision.

Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

No motorcycle accident happens without a reason. Knowing what these reasons can be can help save a life. The reasons come in the categories of the rider’s perception, the rider’s bike, the driver’s perception, the driver’s vehicle, and outside factors.

While riding your motorcycle, keeping your perception awake and alert is the first step in a safe ride. If you are starting a new medication regimen, understand that some symptoms may include drowsiness, of which you have probably heard the phrase before “do not operate heavy machinery.” This is very true, especially when dealing with heavy machinery that moves on the road. Never drive while intoxicated.

Your bike is an extension of yourself. Keeping it healthy includes making sure it is regularly maintained. Check on a regular basis the engine, the brakes, and everything in between to ensure a safe ride. If you apply modifications to your bike, be aware that they might change the weight of the bike and the feel of the ride. Know what changes come with modifications and learn how to handle the change on the road.

The driver of a vehicle may not always be as aware as you are. They might not regularly check their blind spots, or they may just be careless drivers. If they are intoxicated or otherwise drowsy from medication, they may not be the safest drivers with whom to share the road. While this is out of the motorcycle rider’s control, it is safest for you, as the motorcycle rider, to practice defensive driving, as if everyone other than yourself is not driving safely.

The other vehicle and vehicles around you will not always be in the best shape. This is out of the control of their neighbors on the road, but it is true. Cars are not always regularly maintained and bad things can result. While on your bike, always be prepared for what may happen. Be prepared to change lanes if something does not appear safe, and always have the knowledge of your surroundings to accurately make a decision that may have to be a quick one.

Outside factors are always something to be prepared for. Do not try to drive in heavy rain or fog. Be prepared for the sporadic events of Florida weather, and be prepared to make necessary changes to accommodate appropriately.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident

After a motorcycle accident, the first thing you need to do is make sure everyone involved, including yourself, is okay and uninjured. Take the measures needed to ensure recovery. Even minor injuries need to be looked at, especially since a small injury could grow into something worse. Call the police and a personal injury attorney and speak with them before speaking to insurance companies. Take photos of the weather, the surroundings, the motorcycles or vehicles involved and their placement in regards to each other. Also take pictures of any injuries sustained. These photos will help you remember the incidents as well as become proof for insurance companies. Even pictures from a cell phone are handy enough to use. Exchange information with the other party as soon as you can.

Concluding Thoughts

In an ideal world, every road would be a safe road, and no accidents would occur. This is unfortunately not the case, but the first place to start is on your own bike. Driving safely with the right perception and safety gear can make a vast difference when on the road. Remember to note down all the details and keep a balanced perspective after an accident, and do not forget to contact an attorney. With freedom comes responsibility, especially when mounting a motorcycle.

The post Motorcycle Accidents in Florida: The “Where” appeared first on Chopper Law.

How Negligence is Proven

The law states that individuals owe those around them a duty to act responsibly in situational circumstances. In the most basic terms, it is all about being a decent human being. If Person A’s car hits Person B, and Person A drives away without acting responsibly and owning up to their actions, Person A is now the negligent party as long as the event can be proven. Proof is needed whenever the person who causes an accident fails in this duty in order for them to be held responsible.

Negligence, at its most basic definition, is neglect. Negligence is not about intentional harm; but rather, carelessness and failure to act responsibly. An example would be walking past someone who is heavily bleeding. The failure to call emergency services for the bleeding person is negligence.

Negligence is proven depending on what type of negligence was involved. In contributory negligence, if the defendant’s negligence is determined to be more severe than the plaintiff’s negligence, then the claim is defeated. This means that in a motorcycle accident, the plaintiff is at fault when negligence lies in both the plaintiff and the defendant. In comparative negligence, a comparison of both parties is allowed to figure the awarding damages. This is based on the amount of the plaintiff’s negligence that caused the injury.

What You Can Do to Avoid Accidents: Cars

Sharing a road with motorcycles does not have to be an unnerving or dangerous time for anyone. Taking certain precautions as the driver of a vehicle can save time, money, and most importantly, lives. Watching for bikers does not mean extra time out of your day or extra money out of your wallet; it just means a new awareness on the various travelers of the road.

• Do not use the entire road to drive. While this may seem obvious, driving on your side of the road avoids accidents with anyone else on the road no matter who is driving what. The motorcyclist needs their own lane to drive in, so never join in on their own lane. Motorcycles may be smaller than vehicles, but the space of a lane is crucial to motorcycle safety.
• Pay attention to who and what is on the road around you. Be sure to regularly check all blind spots.
• Signal in time.
• If driving behind a motorcycle, give them plenty of room between your vehicle and the motorcycle.

What You Can Do to Avoid Accidents: Motorcycles

Riding a motorcycle can be freeing. On the other side of that coin, it can be dangerous when precautions are not taken.

• Do your best to drive past other cars’ blind spots.
• Always wear a helmet and any other safety gear.
• Be aware of the road’s environment, surroundings, and the weather.
• Maintain your bike regularly.

Contact Us Today

Here at Chopper Lawyer, we understand that accidents are, of course, accidental unless proven otherwise. While there are steps that both drivers and motorcyclists can take to ensure a safer road for everyone, mistakes happen, and it is everyone’s duty to do the right thing when a situation arises. If your or your loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, or if you have any questions regarding negligence on a motorcycle or on the road in general, do not hesitate to contact us today. We serve the Florida counties of Hernando, Citrus, Pasco, Pinellas, and Hillsborough.

The post How is Negligence Proven in a Motorcycle Accident? appeared first on Chopper Law.

Motorcycle Modification

Modifications can become a memorable adjustment to any part of your motorcycle. However, some modifications can affect the safety of your riding experience. Modifications that improve how the bike works do not pose much threat to the overall safety. Such modifications include engine performance, comfort, handling, breaking, or cargo capacity. Even though every modification poses somewhat of a threat and is never completely safe, there is no need to lose sleep over a modification when it is implemented properly.

It is the handling that becomes a concern in regards to modifications. Any modification made changes the motorcycle’s handling, which then needs some time getting used to. A motorcycle should feel like an extension of its rider, and the rider needs to master how it handles no matter what. Some modifications are more for look than for function, and sometimes the first replaces the latter. It is never safe to trade safety for aesthetics.

Some modifications are made to fit the driver, such as when a motorcycle is lowered so the rider can have a safe stance during a stop. However, this same modification means that the cornering ground clearance has been compromised. The entire riding experience can change with a modification to the structure. The first step in motorcycle safety while on the road begins with the rider and their responsibility to work with their bike. Always understand the consequences of a modification, no matter what the change is. Understand what the modification can and cannot do, and do not try to push any limits.

Modified motorcycles are involved in crashes on the road. Modifications can turn a motorcycle into a semi-chopper, which makes the vehicle more likely to crash, and holds the two largest subcategories of bike: cruisers and sportbikes. Modified exhaust systems are also a factor in the majority of motorcycle accidents when modification is involved.

If you are thinking of modifying your bike, be safe about it. Know the rules and regulations of the road, and take into consideration what your bike can and cannot handle. Modifications made by the rider are vastly different than those made by a professional manufacturer. Do not compromise quality and safety. Avoid using modification fads just to make your bike look “cool.” A while back it was popular to remove the front brake of a motorcycle, which resulted in many crashes. Always take the safest measures when modifying your motorcycle.

Contact Us Today

Each motorcycle is like the finger prints of its rider: unique. Everyone is different in their own way, and as cliché as it sounds, diversity is an important aspect in the human community. Here at Chopper Lawyer, we help motorcycles drive on the road of the law in the Florida counties of Hernando, Pasco, Citrus, Pinellas, and Hillsborough. We can help you with all your needs regarding motorcycles and the law. If you have any questions regarding motorcycle law or modifications, or if you or your loved one have been involved in a motorcycle accident, do not hesitate to contact us today.

The post What Types of Motorcycle Modifications Cause the Most Accidents? appeared first on Chopper Law.

Visibility Before Motorcycle Accidents

When someone is in a car, there’s a large, flashy metal object between the driver and the road. Not only does that afford the driver more protection, it affords them more visibility. It’s hard to miss a large vehicle coming at you, but for motorcycles it’s a different issue. Instead of having a cabin where the driver sits, a motorcyclist has only themselves and their bike. Sure, the bikes are usually pretty, but the motorcycle itself is, by its smaller nature, a less visible device.

That means that when other drivers—perhaps drivers who don’t know motorcyclists or think of others that drive motorcycles—are on the road, they might not notice that there’s a motorcycle until it’s too late. Not seeing the smaller vehicle, they’ll pull out into a left turn—and in doing so, the motorcycle may end up slamming into the car that didn’t see them. In the aforementioned case where the motorcycle slammed into the car, the motorcyclist lost their life—a tragedy by any standards!

Improper Driving Habits And Motorcycle Accidents

The main issue with left turns and motorcycle accidents is that most drivers don’t practice great driving habits. Texting, checking their phones, eating, reading novels (we’ve seen it!), and myriad other distractions pull the drivers out of the driving zone. That means that they’re firmly back into the regular, non-motorized world for long enough to cause something like that to happen. One of these drivers might see another car or truck on the road whilst engaging in this type of behavior, but they’re less likely to see that beautiful motorcycle. That means that they could end up killing someone who didn’t ask for it.

Even if the car driver has perfect habits, they still might not see the motorcycle on the road. People’s habits and expectations color their vision, and this is something to keep in mind. If they’re not familiar with or know a motorcyclist, they’re less likely to expect them—and see them.

What You Can Do To Prevent Motorcycle Accidents

As a motorcyclist, you can keep your eyes on the road as you always do and drive cautiously. Be sure to check every intersection for oncoming traffic. Make sure they’re slowing down. Wear a helmet and safety gear. Make sure your brakes are properly maintained and functional. Most importantly, know your situation and know the other drivers. Your vigilance will help prevent some of these accidents.

Also, as an added precaution, you can wear some gear that makes you more visible. While big flashing lights in vibrant colors might not be your cup of tea, bright red reflectors and other large, reflective surfaces increases your visibility. Red is one of the colors we are most receptive to as red is the color of our own blood. That’s why stoplights are red, as well as stop signs.

And, as always, if you need any assistance after your left turn motorcycle accident, be sure to give us a ring here at Chopper Lawyer. We’re ready to help you with you case and get the compensation that you need if you’re injured in motorcycle accidents like this. We know it’s painful—let us help you!

The post Motorcycle Accident Due To A Left Turn: The Hazards appeared first on Chopper Law.

1. Motorcycle accidents can lead to serious injury or death.

With nothing between you and the open road, riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating. But this comes at a cost. Motorcyclists are open to the elements, not only to the actual weather, but to the pavement or another vehicle if involved in an accident. With nothing between you and the road, there’s little to protect you. The harsh reality is that motorcycle accidents can unfortunately lead to serious bodily injury including spinal cord injuries, brain injuries or death. To best protect yourself, it’s advisable to wear a helmet and protective clothing such as leatherwear or Kevlar.

2. Motorcycle accidents often occur because a driver didn’t see the motorcyclist.

Because motorcycles are much smaller than other vehicles, drivers often don’t see them. This is a common cause of motorcycle accidents. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles has recognized this and created initiatives to help with this problem. For example, they’ve provided public awareness education for motorists to “look twice” for motorcyclists. Another initiate is called the “Ride Proud, Dress Loud” campaign. The idea is for motorcyclists to make themselves more visible to other drivers to help avoid accidents. The campaign website includes these Motorcyclist Apparel Safety Tips:

• It is important for motorcyclists to wear clothing that is not only protective but visible during all hours of the day.
• While inconspicuous black clothing may be in fashion, it offers little visibility on roadways. Other color categories which are difficult to detect include: gray, beige and other neutrals.
• One of the easiest and most effective ways for a motorcyclist to be seen is by wearing brightly colored upper-torso clothing.
• Reflective decals or materials can also be worn on clothing to increase a motorcyclist’s visibility.
• In addition to clothing choices, motorcyclists can opt to make their bike more visible.
• Motorcyclists can purchase a brightly-colored bike from the factory for higher visibility.
• If one has an existing motorcycle with primarily dark colors, painting the bike a brighter color or adding eye-catching frontal bodywork is an option.
• Motorcyclists can utilize unique lighting options on their motorcycle, such as high beams during the day.
• Strategically placed magnetic reflector strips can be used on the motorcycle for easy detection in the dark.

3. Motorcycle accidents are often caused by negligent drivers.

In addition to drivers not being able to see a motorcycle, sometimes accidents are caused because the driver didn’t even look! This plus other forms of driving negligence, such as texting while driving or driving under the influence, put you at increased risk for an accident. And while you have as much a right as other drivers to enjoy traveling in safety, the sad truth is that you are at the mercy of other drivers and how they behave behind the wheel.

Need a Motorcycle Accident Attorney?

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident in Hernando, Citrus, Pinellas, Hillsborough or Pasco County, call the experienced motorcycle accident attorneys of Lowman Law Firm for a free consultation. There are no fees or costs unless we are successful.

Call 352-754-4JOE now (352-754-4563) for a free consultation with a Florida motorcycle accident attorney.

The post 3 Harsh Realities of Motorcycle Accidents appeared first on Chopper Law.

1. You don’t need medical treatment for minor injuries.

There are many problems with this piece of advice. First off, your body may be flooded with adrenaline after the accident which could temporarily dull the pain of your injuries. Basically, you could be more injured than you realize. Secondly, not all injuries are visible. It’s important to have proper medical treatment as soon as possible. A precautionary medical examination is in your best interest.

2. You don’t always need to call the police after a motorcycle accident.

This is one of the worst pieces of advice anyone can give you after you’ve been in a motorcycle accident. You should always call the police to report an accident. Police will create an official record with facts from the accident and will take witness statements. This will become important evidence for your case later on.

3. It’s okay to talk about the accident.

While you should give police a basic account of what happened, you should first talk to an attorney before making any official statements about the accident. After an accident occurs, you may be confused, emotional or even injured. This could cause you to make a false or confusing statement that will become part of the official record for your case. Calm down and speak with a motorcycle accident attorney before discussing the accident with others—especially the insurance companies.

4. It’s okay if you don’t have photos of the accident.

Don’t fall for this one! You should take every opportunity to record details from the accident, especially photos. Use your cell phone if you don’t have a camera handy. This is your only opportunity to gather this evidence before it disappears. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words and the photos you take will become an important part of your case. Take photos of the scene of the accident, damage to the vehicles and injuries.

5. Let the police handle all the details.

Again, don’t miss an opportunity to gather evidence! The police are very busy and handle a lot of reports each day. Take charge and get the information you need. Exchange information with others involved in the accident including names, addresses, phone numbers and insurance information. Note the make, model, year, license plate number and VIN of all vehicles involved and get contact information from any witnesses. Record as many details as possible now while they are available. As time goes on, your memory of the accident will fade and evidence will be lost.

The Best Advice For Motorcycle Accidents?

Now comes the best piece of motorcycle accident advice: always call an experienced motorcycle attorney to discuss your case. If you or a loved one have been involved in a motorcycle accident in Hernando, Citrus, Pinellas, Hillsborough or Pasco County, call the Lowman Law Firm for a free consultation. There are no fees or costs unless we are successful.

Remember, you must act quickly after an accident. There is a time limit for filing a claim, plus the longer you wait, the more evidence begins to disappear. Call 352-754-4JOE (352-754-4563) for a free consultation with a Florida motorcycle accident attorney.

The post The World’s Worst Motorcycle Accident Advice appeared first on Chopper Law.