Florida is known for its beautiful weather and scenery, which attracts tourists throughout the year. Pleasant weather brings many motorcyclists to ride roads, and unfortunately, motorcycle accidents occur more often. In 2016 Florida state had the most motorcycle fatality accidents in the entire united states. Because motorcycles are frequently going up against large vehicles and traveling at high speed, injuries are more substantial, accidents typically resulting in death, severe, or irreversible injuries. Like all accidents, motorcycle accidents can significantly impact your loved ones financially, mentally, and emotionally.

Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents

Various factors can cause motorcycle accidents such as distracted driving, wildlife, drunk driving, or reckless driving resulting from the rider’s part or another driver on the road. However, the single most dangerous situation for motorcyclists are cars who are making left-hand turns. These collisions account for 42% of all accidents involving a car and motorcycle. Accidents occur when the turning car strikes a motorcycle who is traveling straight through an intersection. Vehicles that violate motorcyclist’s right of way or fail to obey a sign or traffic light account for most motorcycle accidents. The remaining 25% of accidents only involve the motorcycle.

Motorcycle Laws In Florida

To avoid your probability of getting in a motorcycle accident in West Palm Beach, understanding Florida’s traffic laws for motorcyclists is vital.

How Does Florida Law Define Motorcycles?

Florida Law defines motorcycles as any motorized vehicle with two or three wheels powered by a motor with a displacement of no more than 50 cubic meters. It has a seat and saddle for the rider. Mopeds and scooters are not classified as motorcycles.  

Do I Need a Motorcycle License To Ride A Motorcycle?

Required by Florida law, you need a motorcycle license or motorcycle endorsement before you can legally drive a motorcycle. If you are requesting a motorcycle endorsement, completing an introductory motorcycle safety education course is needed. This course is called the Florida Rider Training Program or FRTP. After the course is completed, you will be issued a motorcycle endorsement or a “motorcycle only” license.

Does My Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Insurance Cover Motorcycle Accidents?

PIP does not apply to motorcycle accidents, personal injury protection only applies to most car accidents. PIP does not apply because Florida does not recognize motorcycles as motor vehicles; therefore, they are not required to hold this insurance.

Should I purchase A Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance Policy?

Advocates USA highly recommends all motorcyclists to purchase Motor Vehicle Liability insurance because Florida’s Financial Responsibility Law also applies to motorcyclists.Per Florida Law, if the rider or driver fails to carry bodily injury liability and property damage insurance, you could lose your license or registration tag, or restitution, or civil court judgment in the event of an accident. Spend the money and protect yourself.

Can I Wear A Headset While Riding A Motorcycle?

Like a person driving a car, headsets or other listening devices are prohibited from wearing for motorcyclists. However, motorcyclists are allowed to operate their motorcycle if their headset is built into their helmet. The law states the headset speakers can not directly connect to the rider’s ear so that the rider can hear for sounds around him.

Do I Need To Wear A Helmet And Eye Protection By Law In Florida?

By law, anyone under the age of 16 must wear a motorcycle helmet and ride only as a passenger on a motorcycle, moped, or any motorized cycle regardless of the engine’s size..Any person over the age of 16 is not required to wear a helmet operating or riding a scooter, moped, or other two or three-wheel motor vehicle 50cc or less. However, over 16 years of age and less than 21 years old are required to wear a department-approved helmet when riding or operating a motorcycle. If the rider is at least 21 years of age and can show proof of medical insurance with coverage of a minimum of $10,000, a helmet is not required.  Regardless of age, all riders are required to wear eye protection. Eye protection is defined by goggles, face shields, and glasses. To avoid severe injury in the event of an accident, regardless of age, wear a helmet, and eye protection could save your life. Think smart.

Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys near you.

Every state is different when it comes to motorcycle laws and what needs to be followed while riding. If you are not familiar with Florida State motorcycle laws, become familiarized before you step on your bike. These laws are put in place to protect you, the rider, and the people you are sharing the road with. Adhering to such rules can help save lives.  

If you or a loved one was involved in a motorcycle accident, speak with a motorcycle attorney near you. Advocates USA might be able to help you recover compensation to help with your medical bills, loss of income, and other damages. We are experienced personal injury attorneys specializing in car accidents, bike accidents, motorcycle accidents, pedestrian accidents serving West Palm Beach, Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and all the counties in South Florida. Contact us today for a free consultation at 1-800-872-4878. We are motorcycle accident attorneys who will aggressively fight for justice in your motorcycle accident claim.