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Motorcycle Accident Fatalities Continue Upward Trend
According to a study recently published by the Governors Highway Safety Association, Florida ranks third in the country behind Texas and California, respectively, for the number of people killed in motorcycle accidents. Nationally, motorcycle accident fatalities have increased 14 out of the last 15 years (1997 to 2012,) with accident statistics continuing this trend thus far in 2013. Nearly 4,000 motorcyclists were killed in the U.S. from January to September 2012 but the authors of the study expected that number to climb to nearly 5,000 by the end of 2012. At least 287 people died in Florida motorcycle accidents over that same period of time, with 358 killed in Texas and 318 in California.
Fatal Motorcycle Accidents in Florida Down Since 2009
Florida’s streets and highways have been somewhat safer for motorcyclists over the last couple of years. Recent statistics indicate that for the first nine months of 2010, there were seven fewer motorcycle fatalities than the same time in 2009 and 80 fewer fatalities across the country during that time. Bikers say that part of the drop in fatal accidents is due to increased awareness of distracted drivers. Bikers say they see more drivers talking and texting on cell phones while behind the wheel these days, but they are getting better at giving them a wide berth. Orlando personal injury attorney James O. Cunningham is pleased to hear that motorcycle accident fatalities are down, but cautions that there is plenty of room for improvement in preventing motorcycle accidents and resulting injuries and deaths.
Mr. Cunningham is an excellent and knowledgeable attorney.