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Florida Motorcycle Laws Drivers Should Know

November 10, 2021 | Category: Motorcycle Accidents | Share

Driving in Florida, especially when our population increases with part-time residents and tourists, can be frustrating and dangerous. Our roads become filled with motorists many of whom are motorcyclists. With more traffic comes the potential of more accidents, and motorcyclists usually are injured or tragically killed when they are in accidents with larger, more protective vehicles.

Florida Motorcycle Laws Drivers Should Know - Spivey Law"Everyone on our roads should be familiar with the basic traffic laws, such as what they are required to do at traffic lights, stop signs, and yield signs. However, many motor vehicle drivers are unfamiliar with the Florida laws that motorcyclists are to follow. This unfamiliarity often leads to accidents,” said Fort Myers Motorcycle Accident Attorney Randall Spivey of Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A.

Florida Statute 316.405 requires motorcycle operators to always have their headlights on. This ensures they can be seen by other vehicles sharing the roadways.

In addition to Florida motorcycle laws, other drivers need to be aware of the dangers of driving when motorcycle traffic may be around. These include:

  • Braking Differences – Motorcycles have more difficulty stopping than larger vehicles. They require at least 120 feet to slow down from 60 mph to zero in the best of conditions. Motorcycles cannot slam on the brakes to come to a stop and stopping suddenly can cause a motorcycle to flip over. A Bikesafer.com survey showed that if a motorcycle is traveling at 65 mph, it could take 3.83 seconds of braking time to stop. Should the front wheel lock at a high speed, the motorcyclist will most likely fall forward over the handlebars, carried forward by momentum. Drivers of other vehicles need to understand the braking capabilities of motorcycles to avoid accidents. 
  • Blind Spots - A common cause of motorcycle accidents is when drivers do not see a motorcyclist in their blind spot. Motorists should frequently turn their heads to check their blind spots, especially before they change lanes. 
  • Bad Weather Conditions – When there is inclement weather, it is easier for vehicles to navigate than for motorcycles. A motorcyclist’s vision may be impaired, and it is easier for them to slip and slide. Windy conditions can also make driving difficult for motorcyclists and push them sideways. Drivers need to slow down and give motorcyclists extra room and time to navigate.

“If you or a loved one is injured in a motorcycle accident, please contact Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. after seeking medical attention. We have experience assisting injured, seriously injured, or tragically killed motorcyclists and their families get the compensation they deserve to cover such things as:

  • Medical care
  • Prescription medications
  • Other out-of-pocket costs
  • Loss of earnings
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional trauma
  • Loss of companionship, consortium, and enjoyment of life 

Here’s what a couple of our clients say about working with our Florida personal injury accident team:

  • Spivey law firm did an outstanding job, and the staff is very professional, very easy to talk to. You are part of the family, and he is on your side. Professional, polite and they get the job done. If you have or had a motorcycle, make sure that you have their phone number! - Mike S.
  • I had an excellent experience with this law firm! They took very good care of me during my case, very responsive to my questions/concerns, guiding me through the process, and always so friendly!! Look nowhere else, Spivey Law Firm is the best!!!. - Rene B. 

There are no costs or attorney fees until we receive a monetary recovery for you, and we are available 24/7. You are never alone,” said Attorney 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 percent (1%) 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 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 at 239.793.7748.

 

 

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