A recent accident in Boynton Beach highlights the dangers of everyday traffic for motorcyclists. The victim was riding his motorcycle on North Congress Avenue when a van turned left in front of him as the traffic light turned yellow. The motorcycle struck the passenger side of the van and was pronounced dead on the scene. The driver of the van sustained minor injuries in the crash and was taken to the hospital for evaluation of chest pains. For those who have been injured or have lost a family member in a similar incident, retaining the services of an experienced Boynton Beach motorcycle accident lawyer can often provide the help needed to obtain fair compensation in their cases.
Motorcycle Accidents on the Rise
According to a report released by AAA in May 2016, 554 motorcyclists were killed in accidents in the state of Florida in 2015. This represents a 23 percent increase in motorcycle fatalities over 2014. Figures compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicate that motorcyclists are 26 times more likely to die on the road than operators and passengers in cars and trucks per each mile driven. These statistics demonstrate the very real risks to motorcycle operators on the road.
Risk Factors for Motorcyclists
Motorcycle operators and passengers face significant challenges on the road, including some or all of the following:
- The smaller size and profile of motorcycles can sometimes make them harder to see.
- Slick surfaces and obstacles in the road can have a much greater effect on the ability of motorcycle operators to maintain control of their vehicles as compared with larger cars and trucks.
- Larger vehicles also provide barriers between those inside the car and the hazards outside it. By contrast, motorcycle riders are protected only by a helmet and their clothing, increasing the risk of serious injuries even in low-speed accidents.
- On I-95 in Miami, flimsy barriers between express lanes and regular lanes have led to the death of at least one motorcyclist, who was killed when a motorist crossed the barrier and cut him off. The resulting rear-end collision on April 14, 2016, caused the death of the motorcycle operator and has led to public discussion about upgrading the barriers between toll express lanes and non-toll lanes on I-95.
Failure to complete a required training course can also increase the risk of accidents for motorcyclists on Florida streets and highways.
The legal experts at Boynton Law can provide expert guidance and representation for motorcyclists and their families in dealing with the aftermath of serious accidents. By working with our team of Boynton Beach motorcycle accident lawyers, you can ensure the best resolution for your situation while protecting your legal rights to fair compensation for the actions of negligent drivers on Florida roads.
