Distracted Drivers Pose Increased Risk To Motorcyclists

Distracted driving is any activity that diverts the attention of drivers from the duty of reliably operating their vehicles. Such distracting activities may include texting/talking on the phone, eating or drinking, self-grooming, fiddling with a navigation device, etc. Inattentive drivers imperil themselves and endanger their passengers, other drivers on the road, and pedestrians. In particular, motorcyclists face a greater risk of injury and susceptibility to accidents caused by distracted drivers. 

A distracted driver isn’t likely to notice a vehicle as small as a motorcycle coming up the road before they pull out, potentially causing an accident that results in severe or fatal injuries to the biker. Below, the Orlando motorcycle accident attorneys of 911 Biker Law outline the increased risk distracted driving poses to bikers and how one may identify an inattentive driver. 

If you or a loved one were injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, contact our Orlando law firm today to request a consultation with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer! 

Florida Laws On Distracted Driving

To improve roadway safety for all vehicle operators, the State of Florida banned texting while driving and authorizes law enforcement officers to stop and issue citations against drivers who use their mobile devices while behind the wheel. Per Florida Statute §316.305: “A person may not operate a motor vehicle while manually typing or entering multiple letters, numbers, symbols, or other characters into a wireless communications device or while sending or reading data on such a device for the purpose of nonvoice interpersonal communication, including, but not limited to, communication methods known as texting, emailing, and instant messaging.” 

Despite regulation, many drivers continue to text and drive and partake in other forms of risky distracted driving that endanger bikers and other vehicle operators.

How To Identify Distracted Drivers

Unfortunately, even distraction-free drivers fail to look out for motorcyclists on occasion. If attentive drivers aren’t going to see and respect motorcyclists, you can wager good money that a distracted driver won’t either. Since distracted drivers aren’t looking out for you, it’s smart to watch out for them. The following are a few telltale signs and behaviors that motorcyclists can use to identify a distracted driver:

• Weaving in and out of traffic
• Sudden braking
• Driving over the centerline
• Lingering at a green light/intersection
• The driver is wearing headphones

Upon identifying a distracted driver, motorcyclists should consider taking precautions such as:

• Giving yourself and the distracted driver a wide berth
• Use daytime running lights
• Avoid the driver’s blind spots
• Honk if necessary

Never cross in front of a distracted driver unless you’ve made eye contact with them. Also, consider making yourself easier to spot by wearing reflective clothing or bright colors.

What To Do If You’re Injured In A Motorcycle Accident

After exchanging information with the responsible driver, speaking to witnesses, and seeking medical attention, the next step is to reach out to one of the experienced personal injury lawyers at 911 Biker Law. From there, we can help victims of distracted driving seek compensation for their injuries. Our personal injury attorneys have the knowledge and skill necessary to help you attain maximum compensation for your suffering. Contact us today to request a case consultation!