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Motorcycle fatalities in the U.S. occur nearly 30 times more frequently than deaths in other vehicles. Florida is among the states with the highest motorcycle crashes, according to the highway patrol. Almost every day a motorcycle accident occurs in our tri-county area. Many of these accidents are the result of other drivers not knowing how motorcycles operate, especially how motorcyclists use their braking systems. With little protection, motorcyclists always have the largest potential for injury in accidents with other vehicles.

It is not always obvious to other drivers when motorcyclists are braking. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) confirms that motorcycles decelerate faster than other vehicles, so motorcyclists will often downshift instead of applying the brakes. This is especially true when they are driving around a curve. Since this is the case, the motorcycle’s brake lights will not engage or be a signal to other motorists that the motorcycle is preparing to slow down or stop.

Experts say drivers sharing the roadways with motorcyclists should not follow motorcyclists too closely in order to allow a sufficient braking cushion between their vehicles and motorcycles. This cushion should be at least 3 seconds between the driver and any other vehicle. Drivers should start counting when they pass a landmark. If the road conditions are hazardous, motorists need to leave extra braking space.

Most motorcycles are fitted with two independent braking systems. One braking system is for the front wheel and a second one is for the rear wheel. Experts say that approximately 70 percent of a motorcycle’s total braking power comes from the front brake.

Motorcycles require at least 120 feet to slow from 60 mph to zero if the conditions are perfect. Distance, the speed of the vehicles involved, road conditions, and weather all play roles in braking. A Bikesafer.com study estimated that the stopping distance for motorcycle riders traveling at 65 mph would be 3.83 seconds of braking time. If the front wheel locks at a high speed, the motorcyclist is likely to fall forward over the handlebars because of his or her momentum.

“We at Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. warn drivers to always be aware of the presence of motorcycles when traveling on our roads and highways and to be prepared for them to unexpectedly slow down. Should you or a loved one be injured in a motorcycle accident, our experienced legal team is available 24/7 when you need us,” said Fort Myers Motorcycle Accident Attorney, Randall Spivey.

Fort Myers Motorcycle Accident Attorney, Randall L. Spivey is a Board Certified Trial Attorney – the highest recognition for competence bestowed by the Florida Bar and a distinction earned by just one (1%) percent of Florida attorneys.  He has handled over 2,000 personal injury and wrongful death cases throughout Florida.  For a free and confidential consultation to discuss your legal rights, contact the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A., in Lee County at 239.337.7483 or toll free at 1.888.477.4839, or by email to Randall@SpiveyLaw.com.  Visit SpiveyLaw.com for more information.  You can contact Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A.in Charlotte County at 941.764.7748 and in Collier County 239.793.7748.