That is the third consecutive yr that Florida has ranked primary within the U.S. for motorbike deaths. So, what’s it that is within the Floridian air that is inflicting such issues for our two-wheeled brethren? Or, somewhat, what’s it within the state structure?
Sure, when you do not already know or have not guessed it, Florida does not require motorcyclists to put on helmets. Particularly, motorcyclists who’re over the age of 21 and are coated by an insurance coverage coverage offering not less than $10,000 in medical advantages can choose to not put on a lid. As I’ve mentioned so many instances earlier than, do what you need throughout the parameters of the legislation, however please know what you are opening your self as much as when you select to trip with no helmet.
Fortunately, the variety of motorbike crashes leading to fatalities in Florida has been taking place yr on yr. But it surely’s nonetheless the main state in motorcyclist fatalities. In 2022, there have been 631 fatalities, by 2023, this quantity fell to 621 fatalities, and in 2024 there have been 578 fatalities because of 9,420 motorbike crashes.
Sadly, fatalities are majorly trending upward for 2025 in some counties. Because the begin of the yr by way of to Feb. 16, Jacksonville is averaging one motorbike demise each 5.5 days, which might end in 66 deaths by the yr’s finish on the present. By Feb. 16 final yr, Jacksonville had recorded simply two fatalities and ended 2024 with 36 deaths because of motorbike crashes.
But it surely’s not simply helmet legal guidelines which are working towards motorcyclists in Florida, in keeping with a research compiled from Nationwide Freeway Visitors Security Administration reviews by Marietta, Georgia-based private legal professional agency Jones & Swanson.
“Florida stays probably the most harmful state for motorcyclists, not on account of likelihood, however due to coverage failures… Weak helmet legal guidelines, lenient DUI enforcement, and long-ignored crash hotspots are needlessly endangering riders. With out pressing reforms, these deaths will proceed to climb.”, mentioned the agency in an electronic mail.
Daytona Bike Week will quickly be upon us, and with it, the understanding of a excessive fee of motorbike crashes and deaths in Florida all through the 10-day pageant. So, when you’re considering of heading all the way down to the Sunshine State for Daytona Bike Week, please think about carrying your helmet, and be at liberty to say “hello” when you see me.
