During the summer months, many motorcycle enthusiasts enjoy going for long rides to enjoy the scenery.  Now is the time for motorcyclists to take all of the necessary safety precautions and for automobile drivers to be fully aware of the bikes around them.For safety resources and materials please visit the Motorcycle Safety Foundation® which is the internationally recognized developer of the comprehensive, research-based, Rider Education and Training System (MSF RETS). RETS curricula promotes lifelong-learning for motorcyclists and continuous professional development for certified RiderCoaches and other trainers. MSF also actively participates in government relations, safety research, public awareness campaigns and the provision of technical assistance to state training and licensing programs.

Some General Guidelines for Riding a Motorcycle

Be visible:

• Remember that motorists often have trouble seeing motorcycles and reacting in time.
• Make sure your headlight works and is on day and night.
• Use reflective strips or decals on your clothing and on your motorcycle.
• Be aware of the blind spots cars and trucks have.
• Flash your brake light when you are slowing down and before stopping.
• If a motorist doesn’t see you, don’t be afraid to use your horn.

Dress for safety:

• Wear a quality helmet and eye protection.
• Wear bright clothing and a light-colored helmet.
• Wear leather or other thick, protective clothing.
• Choose long sleeves and pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.
• Remember - the only thing between you and the road is your protective gear.

Apply effective mental strategies:

• Constantly search the road for changing conditions. Use MSF’s Search, Evaluate, Execute strategy (SEESM) to increase time and space safety margins.
• Give yourself space and time to respond to other motorists’ actions.
• Give other motorists time and space to respond to you.
• Use lane positioning to be seen; ride in the part of a lane where you are most visible.
• Watch for turning vehicles.
• Signal your next move in advance.
• Avoid weaving between lanes.
• Pretend you’re invisible, and ride extra defensively.
• Don’t ride when you are tired or under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
• Know and follow the rules of the road, and stick to the speed limit.

Know your bike and how to use it:

• Get formal training and take refresher courses.
• Call 800.446.9227 or visit www.msf-usa.org to locate the Motorcycle Safety Foundation hands-on RiderCourseSM nearest you.
• Practice. Develop your riding techniques before going into heavy traffic. Know how to handle your bike in conditions such as wet or sandy roads, high winds, and uneven surfaces.

Remember: Give yourself space. People driving cars often just don’t see motorcycles. Even when drivers do see you, chances are they’ve never been on a motorcycle and can’t properly judge your speed.

Motorcycle Insurance FAQs:

• There is no PIP (Personal Injury Protection) insurance coverage for motorcycles.
• Although, the Kane Law firm strongly discourages the habit of riding without a helmet or with only a novelty helmet. Many riders engage in this practice. To legally ride without a helmet the state of Florida requires that you be at least 21 years old and have at least $10,000.00 worth of medical coverage insurance that does not exclude motorcycles. Companies recommended by ABATE are Alpha Property and Casualty Insurance - covers both rider and passenger; Progressive Insurance Company - covers both rider and passenger; and Dairyland Insurance. You will most likely be required to purchase liability insurance in order to get the Medical Payment insurance coverage. If you have any doubts about your insurance coverage, request a Certificate of Coverage from your insurance company.
• Approved Motorcyclist Helmet List from the Florida Highway Patrol
  http://www.fhp.state.fl.us/html/helmet.html

ABATE (American Bikers Aiming Towards Education) of Florida, Inc. is a state-wide non-profit organization of motorcycle enthusiasts from all walks of life that promotes motorcycle safety awareness, encourage continuing rider training and political awareness. 

Contact the Kane Law Firm, P.A.

It is important to contact a motorcycle attorney because motor bike laws are different from automobile accident laws. Motorcyclists are not required to carry PIP insurance and do not receive those benefits. Therefore, if they are injured in a motorcycle crash in Florida, they need not prove that their injuries are permanent in order to receive pain and suffering compensation. An experienced attorney can also represent family members who have lost a loved one in a fatal motorcycle accident.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a sportbike, Harley, dirt bike, scooter or motorcycle accident, please call the Central Florida Motorcycle, Harley, Sportbike, Dirt Bike and Scooter Accident Attorneys at Kane Law Firm, P.A. in Maitland - Orlando, Florida, at (407) 644-KANE(5263), submit a contact form on our website, or email us at Info@KaneInjury.com.

As a father-daughter team of attorneys, we know the devastation an injury can cause you and your family.  We would be honored to serve as your advocate in seeking the justice you deserve. “Let Our Family Help Your Family.”

We offer a free initial consultation, and if we agree to take your case, we will work on a contingency basis. This means we will get paid for our services only if there is a monetary award or recovery of funds.