Motorcycle riders love Florida and who can blame them?  Florida has miles of open road, sunshine, and many months of temperate weather. However, motorcycle riding in can be very dangerous if proper precautions are not followed.

Fortunately, Florida is leading the nation in motorcycle safety.  In 2008, the state initiated the Motorcycle Safety Coalition in response to motorcycle fatalities nearly doubling during the eight years prior to 2008. Florida now requires all motorcyclists to pass a basic rider course before they can receive their motorcycle endorsement. This course provides new riders with the fundamental skills necessary to ride safely. Since Florida implemented the Safety Coalition, there have been more riders on the road and less accidents.

Here are some tips to keep you safe on your motorcycle:

• Wear a proper fitting helmet. Even though Florida riders over 21 are not required to wear helmets, it is in their best interest to do so. According to information from death certificates issued in 2010, 29% of riding fatalities were linked to traumatic brain injury.
• Wear protective eye gear, as required by the law.
• Stick to the speed limit.
• Don’t tailgate other vehicles.
• Use your signals.
• Don’t weave in and out of traffic.
• Make sure other drivers can see you, and don’t ride in other vehicles’ blind spots.
• Don’t drink and ride.  According to studies by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, consumption of any alcohol increases a rider’s chance of crashing by five times.

Following these tips will help keep you safe on your motorcycle.  However, if you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, consultation with knowledgeable Florida motorcycle accident attorneys can protect your right to compensation.