Florida’s tropical climate and long sunny days make it irresistible to cruise along the coast on your motorcycle. The Tampa Bay area is a haven for scenic and peaceful rides. With increased traffic on the roads and busy national holidays, the summer months bring their own risks to motorcycle enthusiasts.
Safety is a crucial component of any riding plan, no matter where you are in the United States. If you ride a motorcycle in St. Petersburg, you may be at a higher risk of an accident. Our area has a potentially dangerous mix of both youthful and elderly drivers with limited abilities, vacationers that may be drinking and driving, and other tourists that may be unfamiliar with the roads. The increased rate of motorcycle-related injuries and fatalities due to collisions makes Florida the fourth-most dangerous state in which to ride your bike.
At Marsalisi Law, we strive to protect riders at every stage of their journey. If you’re excited to welcome summer on your bike, consider some of the safety tips below before hopping on.
Wear a Motorcycle Helmet on All Rides
Florida law describes specific conditions for wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle in the state. While Florida State Statute 316.211 requires headgear and protective eyewear, there are some exceptions to this rule.
You’re not legally required to wear a helmet and eye protection if:
- You’re over the age of 21 and are covered by an insurance policy providing at least $10,000 in medical benefits for injuries incurred from a motorcycle crash; or
- You’re over the age of 16 and ride a motorcycle powered by a motor with a displacement of 50 cc or less, or is rated not in excess of 2 brake horsepower, and which cannot propel such motorcycle at a speed greater than 30 miles per hour on level ground.
It’s important to understand that Florida operates as a “no-fault” state and requires most motorists to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage of $10,000 or more. This requirement doesn’t extend to people operating motorcycles. So, if you ride a bike, you should carry a policy that offers comparable benefits, or be able to prove you have the assets to meet that expectation, if should you ever be held liable for a collision.
Benefits of Wearing a Motorcycle Helmet in St. Petersburg
Critical advantages of wearing a motorcycle helmet when riding in and around St. Petersburg are:
- Decreasing your risk of head injury;
- Lowering your risk of dying in an accident; and
- Protecting your eyes and face from debris.
Motorcycle accidents can devastate your life or that of a loved one in an instant. Bodily injuries, emotional trauma, and crushing financial pressure can compound the situation and make a full recovery feel impossible. These reasons alone make it worth wearing a helmet to avoid a grim scenario. Rest assured, Marsalisi Law is eager to help you get back to your life if you experience losses in a crash whether or not you wore a helmet.
Be Visible to Other Motorists
All too often, when a car or truck collides with a motorcycle on the road, the driver will claim that they didn’t see the motorcycle rider. If you’re concerned about being seen by other motorists, you can take precautions to stand out. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation suggests you take the following measures:
- Wear and use reflective equipment
- Keep your headlights on at all times
- Use your traffic signals
- Stay out of blind spots of other drivers whenever possible
- Don’t be afraid to use your horn
If you end up in an accident despite following these tips, know that you have rights and protections just like everyone else on the road. Communicate with a skilled motorcycle accident attorney like Frank P. Marsalisi to learn about the compensation you may be entitled to by law.
Drive Sober and Alert
Summer riding means barbecues, late nights enjoying the evening air with friends, and glowing sunsets. Unfortunately, there might be more drunk drivers on the road at this time of year. If you plan on enjoying an evening ride, you should avoid having too much to drink. During the summer, it’s crucial to stay alert and watch for unusual driving behavior so you can ride defensively.
St. Petersburg Motorcycle Accident Lawyers By Your Side
Your motorcycle insurance coverage may not be sufficient to meet the demands of possible long-term care or future complications that might arise from injuries suffered in an accident. At Marsalisi Law, we help you assess your situation and provide options for recovering the compensation you deserve to live a quality life.
Working with an experienced personal injury attorney devoted to helping motorcycle accident victims can help you make the most of a painful situation. You may need our assistance in recovering the costs of:
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Lost work
- Transportation to and from appointments
- Future income loss
- Long-term medical care
Attorney Frank P. Marsalisi aims to provide quality representation during this difficult time. He provides the personalized attention you deserve and can accommodate you by visiting your home. Know that you are never alone during this process when you allow us to pursue your case. Marsalisi Law will answer your questions 24/7 and keep you informed about the status of your claim the entire way through.
Over the past decade, we have helped thousands of motorcycle riding clients who suffered needlessly after being struck by a negligent driver. Attorney Frank P. Marsalisi is a member of the Tampa Bay Trial Lawyers Association and has successfully litigated numerous claims involving motorcycle crash injuries. Call (727) 800-5052 for a free case evaluation. You may also complete our contact form. Marsalisi Law is Where Law Gets Personal.
