South Florida Injury Lawyer Blog

A recent motorcycle accident in Boca Raton killed a 21-year-old rider. The accident happened at the intersection of South Central Park Boulevard and State Road 7. According to the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office, the motorcyclist was making a U-turn at the intersection when he was struck by an oncoming motorist.

According to Boca News Now, the motorcyclist was thrown off of his motorcycle in the collision and landed on the east shoulder of the roadway. The vehicle of the man who struck the motorcyclist was hit by another car. Then a third passenger car was hit at the intersection. All of the vehicles came to rest in the center lane of State Road 7. As of yet, none of the drivers are facing any charges.

We talk about it all the time -- the dangers of riding a motorcycle in the state of Florida. Risks for motorcycle accidents in Boca Raton and elsewhere in the state are some of the highest in the country because of the beautiful weather our state provides us with all year. Every day is motorcycle season in the Sunshine State. These risks are also elevated because of the heavy presence of tourists and motorists who are unfamiliar with the roadways.

In the state of Florida, if you already have a Florida driver's license then you can get a motorcycle endorsement on the driver's license you hold. To obtain your motorcycle endorsement you must show proof that you have completed the Florida Rider Program.

Motorcyclists are asked to remain aware and cautious on our roadways. Often, motorcyclists are overlooked by passenger car drivers. For this reason, defensive driving is the best defense against a motorcycle-car accident. Consider the following tips to help you to drive safely among the drivers who may not acknowledge your presence.

Defensive Motorcycling Tips from the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP):

-Wear a helmet. It's your best defense against serious injury and death in the event of an accident.

-Consider wearing face and eye protection, too.

-Never drink before operating a motorcycle.

-Make sure you're properly licensed. All states require you to have a motorcycle license.

-Always follow the rules of the road, especially speed limits. About 40 percent of fatal motorcycle accidents happen when a cyclist is speeding.

-Keep an eye on hazards on the road, including holes, large cracks and bumps.

-Watch out for vehicles coming from driveways and side streets.

-Always drive with your headlights on so that motorists are more likely to see you.

-Never ride with someone until you're skilled at riding in all kinds of conditions.

-Make sure passengers can reach the footrest on your bike.

-Don't let passengers on the bike until you've started it.

-Instruct your passengers to lean with you when making turns.

-Tell passengers to keep away from the muffler to avoid burns.

-Limit talking with passengers while on a motorcycle.

-Stay out of the blind spots of other vehicles.

-Never tailgate or cut off a car.