Motorcycle Accidents

December 1, 2015

Highway Death Toll Up 8.1% This Year

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

The death toll on U.S. highways rose 8.1 percent in the first half of 2015.

According to new figures from the Transportation Department, low fuel prices have contributed to a jump in miles driven by Americans.

The preliminary figures represent a “troubling departure” from a general downward trend over the past decade, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in a report released Tuesday.

In 2014, the fatality rate hit an all-time low.

Americans drove about 51.9 billion miles more in the first half of 2015 than the same period last year, which equates to about a 3.5 percent increase, according to the NHTSA. Job growth and low fuel prices also may be factors in the sudden, unexpected surge in highway fatalities, the agency said. There was also more leisure travel and driving by young people, which can contribute to higher fatality rates.

The sad news is that the death rate also increased. Fatalities per million vehicle-miles driven rose in the first half of 2015 was 1.06 percent, or 4.4 percent higher than the same period in 2014.

In final figures for 2014, 32,675 people died in U.S. motor-vehicle crashes, a 0.1 percent decline from 2013. The fatality rate declined to 1.07 deaths per million vehicle-miles traveled, which was a record low for a complete year.

States in the Southeast — Florida, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee — saw a 15 percent increase in fatalities. The second highest increase, 11 percent, was recorded in a group of Western states: Montana, Idaho, Oregon and Washington. California and Arizona saw no increase in fatalities, and the New England region saw an increase of 1 percent.

The biggest factors in traffic fatalities remain the lack of seatbelt use and drunk driving, according to reports. Nearly half of all people killed in road crashes do not wear seat belts, and one-third of all fatalities are in crashes involve intoxicated drivers.

Distracted driving accounted for 3,179 deaths in 2014, about 10 percent of the total. Drowsy driving was involved in 2.6 percent of the fatalities.

States without mandatory motorcycle helmet laws saw a “far higher” number of fatalities than states with mandatory helmet laws, according to reports. There were 1,565 motorcycle deaths in 2014.

Bicyclist deaths declined by 2.3 percent, but pedestrian deaths rose by 3.1 percent from the previous year. In 2014, there were 726 cyclists and 4,884 pedestrians killed in motor vehicle crashes.

October 16, 2015

Motorcyclist Killed in Palmetto Crash on I-275

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

A motorcyclist was killed Friday after troopers believe he crashed into a guardrail along I-275 in Manatee County.

The crash occurred at 12:05 p.m. in the southbound lanes of I-275 near the interchange with I-75.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the 64-year-old Tarpon Springs man was riding a 2011 Harley-Davidson south on I-275 when he failed to navigate a right curve in the road.

The motorcycle traveled off the north shoulder and hit a guardrail. The man, who was not wearing a helmet, was ejected over the guardrail and landed on the grass shoulder.

The man was pronounced dead at the scene of the collision.

Collisions involving guardrails for motorcycle riders can result in tragic accidents, as this crash shows. Motorcycle riders sustain a significantly higher rate of fatality than occupants of other motor vehicles involved in a collision with a guardrail. While motorcyclists only account for around 2 percent of the vehicles on the road in the U.S., they make up 42 percent of all fatalities involving collisions with guardrails. The fatality risk for a collision involving a guardrail is nearly 80 times higher for motorcyclists compared to occupants of passenger vehicles.

September 24, 2015

Man Killed in Motorcycle Crash in Altoona

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

A 23-year-old man died after losing control of his motorcycle at about 7:05 p.m. Sunday night at County Road 42 and Rea Way in Altoona.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the St. Augustine man was traveling westbound on CR-42 at a high rate of speed on his 2015 Yamaha.

According to the report, when he entered a curve in the road, he lost control and struck a power pole.

The man was transported to Florida Hospital Waterman, where he later died.

The driver was wearing a helmet. Police are looking into whether alcohol was a factor.

Troopers said the crash is still currently under investigation.

Speeding, alcohol, or drug use, as well as disobeying traffic laws greatly increases the chances of a serious accident. While most bikers take precautions to avoid accidents, all too often other driver’s mistakes lead to unfortunate collisions. Even when all safety measures have been observed, there is no way to eliminate the risk, even for the most skilled motorcyclists.

Any motorcyclist who has been involved in a Florida wreck and sustained any type of injury should consult with a Florida Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Whittel & Melton. You deserve to be fully compensated for injuries caused by another motorist. Families who have lost a loved one may be able to seek compensation by filing a wrongful death claim. We realize that these are tragic situations and are extremely difficult for everyone involved.

August 18, 2015

Biker Crashes into Tree in Weston

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

A motorcyclist was flown to a hospital Friday evening after he crashed into a tree in Weston, according to Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue.

According to police, the crash occurred around 6:30 p.m. near the intersection of Royal Palm Boulevard and Town Center Boulevard.

Broward Sheriff’s Office Air Rescue landed on the Weston Hills Country Club golf course to pick up the man and take him to Broward Health Medical Center as a Level 2 trauma, according to reports.

Police said that the man, whose name and age were not released, suffered injuries that were potentially serious but did not appear critical or life-threatening.

While this crash is likely the subject of an ongoing investigation, those injured in motorcycle crashes can potentially file civil litigation seeking damages under certain circumstances. In many motorcycle accidents cases, it is possible for an injured person to seek compensation if it is reasonable to claim that another person’s negligent conduct resulted in the accident. In certain scenarios, passengers may seek monetary damages for medical bills, pain and suffering and possible lost wages.

July 2, 2015

Fourth of July Road Dangers

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

Fireworks are definitely dangerous, but they are not the only dangers to avoid this Fourth of July weekend. The roadways are especially hazardous during the summer holidays. When you are traveling to or from an Independence Day party this year, please remember to be on the look out for reckless drivers.

Here are a few dangers to try and avoid this Fourth of July:

Drunk drivers. Think about it, almost every Florida Independence Day celebration will have alcohol. Partygoers who are drinking at parties and such should not get behind the wheel of a car. If you see a car weaving or dodging in and out of traffic, keep your distance. If you have a passenger with you, consider notifying authorities.
Drowsy Drivers. Many holiday drivers are travelling lengthy distances to get to their final destination. Those who have been driving for hours may be feeling fatigued. Drowsy driving is often as dangerous as drunk drivers, so stay alert.
Distracted Drivers. Keep in mind that many travelers on Florida roadways are from out of town and have never been to the area before. Taking your eyes off the road for just a few seconds to look at a navigation device can have devastating results. Avoid being a distracted driver by staying off your cell phone and having other passengers check your GPS or phone for you.
Speeding Drivers. People that are anxious to get where they are going may decide to speed or drive recklessly. Make sure you obey the posted speed limits and monitor your speed if there is heavy traffic.

March 6, 2015

Top Causes of Auto Accidents in Florida

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

As deadly collisions continue to occur throughout the state of Florida, it is quite fitting that citizens of Florida should want answers. While there is not just one answer for the reason why deadly crashes occur, there is some insightful information available on motor vehicle accident causes across the state.

Top Causes for Crashes

Distracted Driving
Speeding
Road Rage
Impaired Driving
Fatigue

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is one of the top causes of auto accidents in the state of Florida. From texting, talking on the phone, applying makeup, eating or engaging in any other manual, visual and cognitive non-driving tasks while behind the wheel, distracted driving puts Floridians in danger.

Speeding

Speeding is another top cause of motor vehicle collisions in Florida. Going too fast on the roadways can lead to serious injury as well as death. An increase in speed can lead to an increased risk of causing a serious traffic accident.

Road Rage

Aggressive driving maneuvers like tailgating and cutting off cars is another reason why so many auto accidents occur in Florida. Aggressive driving is a form of road rage, and can also include risky behaviors like improper signaling and swerving in and out of lanes.

Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs also leads to lethal accidents on Florida roadways. While the FHP and local law enforcement agencies have been ramping up their efforts to crackdown on drunk drivers, impaired driving collisions are still happening in Florida.

Fatigue

Fatigue is also a major cause for concern when it comes to car crashes. When a driver is drowsy or sleepy, he or she is not likely to make good decisions behind the wheel. It is vital to be alert when driving any distance. Drowsy driving can easily lead to a serious collision in just the blink of an eye.

February 27, 2015

Motorcyclist Charged with DUI Manslaughter in Death of Skateboarder

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

According to Clay County deputies, a motorcyclist who was speeding in a Fleming Island neighborhood when he struck and killed a skateboarder last August, turned himself in Thursday morning.

The Clay County Sheriff’s Office claims that the 27-year-old was riding his motorcycle under the influence and going over 70 mph in a 30mph zone early the morning of Aug. 2 when he struck and killed the 23-year-old man on Bald Eagle Road.

The man was pronounced dead at the scene.

The biker was airlifted to UF Health Jacksonville, where he recovered.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the man’s blood test indicated his blood-alcohol was 0.089 and 0.091, which is above the state limit.

The man’s driving record includes 27 citations, four for speeding, three for careless driving and two for reckless driving. He was also arrested once before for DUI.

The man apparently surrendered to deputies at the Sheriff’s Office on charges of vehicular homicide and DUI manslaughter. He posted $15,006 bond and is currently out of jail.

An impaired motorcyclist is a very dangerous combination. Motorists who operate vehicles under the influence of drugs or alcohol are at a severe disadvantage as these can hinder one’s ability to perform functions normally. Motorcyclists under the influence of drugs or alcohol have slower reaction times, may experience difficulty focusing on the roads as well as have trouble balancing, all of which can significantly increase the likelihood of a motor vehicle collision.

January 23, 2015

Motorcyclist Killed in Crash on U.S. 441

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

A motorcyclist who collided with an SUV on U.S. 441 and was ejected into a ditch by the impact of the crash passed away at a local hospital Wednesday.

The 65-year-old Ocala biker was transported to Ocala Regional Medical Center by ambulance following the crash. He was riding a 2011 Harley Davidson and was wearing a helmet, according to Ocala police.

The afternoon crash blocked traffic heading northbound on the busy thoroughfare at Northwest 20th Street for a little more than an hour as traffic homicide investigators from the Ocala Police Department conducted their investigation.

December 11, 2014

Leesburg City Commissioner Jay Hurley Loses License Over Motorcycle Crash

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

Leesburg City Commissioner Jay Hurley failed to convince a Lake County judge Wednesday morning that he made a wide turn and not an improper lane change that caused a crash that resulted in a biker’s death earlier this year, which lead to his driver’s license being suspended for six months and a $1,000 fine.

The one-hour hearing took place Wednesday morning and included testimony from Hurley, Leesburg police and witnesses as friends and family members of the victim.

The crash happened April 27 in front of Gator Harley-Davidson on U.S. Highway 441 during the last day of Leesburg Bikefest. According to police statements, Hurley was driving his Ford F-150 east on U.S. Highway 441 in the center lane and was preparing to turn into the motorcycle shop, which is on the south side of the highway.

The deceased was riding his 1987 Yamaha behind Hurley, but was in the right lane.

According to police evidence, Hurley made a right turn from the center lane into the dealership and drove into the path of the Yamaha, causing the deceased to crash head first into the truck.

After two weeks in a coma, the deceased passed away at Orlando Regional Medical Center.

After the accident, Hurley received citations for improper window tint and improper lane change resulting in death. The State Attorney’s Office recently cleared Hurley of any criminal charges from the accident.

At the hearing Wednesday morning, Hurley pleaded not guilty and stated that he was in the right lane but, due to the size of his four-door truck, he had to make a wide turn into the center lane in order to turn right into the business.

Leesburg police showed video and pictures of the crash site that displayed the truck at an 80-degree angle at the turn, with the bike pinned underneath. Police argued that it would have been impossible for the truck to have crashed at that angle if it had been turning from the right lane, even if a wide turn was the problem. Police even reconstructed the accident with similar vehicles to prove their case.

The judge found Hurley guilty, despite the fact that Hurley’s defense lawyer pointed out that police found no evidence of the bike braking and asked the judge to ignore the reconstruction video as well as a taped police interview of Hurley.

While no criminal charges will be filed against Hurley, the family of the deceased can still file a civil suit against the man, contending negligence. In these types of cases, financial compensation may be awarded for lost wages and benefits, loss of companionship and any emotional pain and suffering that is caused by the death. In order to recover these damages, it must be shown that specific actions were responsible for the death, and that the death would not have occurred without those actions.

December 3, 2014

Howey-in-the-Hills Resident Killed in Motorcycle Crash

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

A Howey-in-the-Hills man died Sunday after losing control of a motorcycle he was driving on a curved road in Volusia County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The 50-year-old Howey-in-the-Hills resident was pronounced dead after a crash that involved three motorcyclists around 10:40 a.m. Sunday.

FHP believes the man was joined by two other bikers all driving Harley-Davidson motorcycles and traveling eastbound on Maytown Road near Maytown Spur Road in Volusia County.

As the three motorcyclists entered a curve, the deceased lost control of his bike and collided with the other men, according to the FHP.

All three men were ejected from their motorcycles.

Two of the men were not wearing helmets. The two surviving crash victims were taken to Halifax Medical Center. One was listed as having serious injuries and the other had minor injuries.

A spokeswoman for FHP said in a statement that the fatal crash remains under investigation, and that the crash was not alcohol-related.

While many bikers like to take solo excursions, an organized motorcycle ride with a group of friends can be an exciting change of pace. However, as with anything that involves more people, there are increased safety risks in group riding.

Safety experts recommend a staggered riding formation where riders are spaced at least two bike lengths apart. This is the best riding format because it creates a gap between the motorcycles so riders have the time and space needed to maneuver around hazards or react to an emergency situation. When visibility is poor or there are road hazards, riding single file is best. It is recommended to avoid riding side-by-side, and of course, always follow traffic laws.