From AAA
Drivers should expect an increase in motorcycle traffic on all Florida roadways, as thousands of motorcyclists roar into Daytona for the 76th annual Daytona Bike Week, March 10-19.
Florida has the most motorcycle fatalities in the nation, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. According to the most recent crash data, Florida saw a 30% increase in these deaths, making 2015 the highest on record. Motorcyclists accounted for one-fifth (20%) of motor vehicle fatalities in the state, yet motorcycles only account for 3% of registered vehicles. In 2015, 606 people died and 9,045 were injured in motorcycle crashes on Florida roads.
“Time and time again the effectiveness of motorcycle helmets has been proven through scientific study,” said Karen Morgan, Public Policy Manager, AAA - The Auto Club Group. “AAA strongly supports a universal helmet law in Florida.”
According to a AAA Consumer Pulse™ survey the majority (83%) of motorcyclists claim to wear a helmet when they ride. But according to a motorcycle helmet usage report, only 47% of riders in Florida were observed wearing a helmet while riding.
Motorcycle crashes are costly, yet according to a AAA Consumer Pulse™ survey, one in seven motorcyclists (15%) do not have motorcycle insurance. According to the Florida Department of Health, hospital charges for motorcyclists - treated in a hospital due to a traffic crash - totaled $675,674,964. The average cost for a motorcyclist involved in a traffic crash who was then admitted to the hospital was $83,676. Helmet use has been shown to significantly reduce the cost associated with motorcycle traffic crashes.
“Wearing a helmet could mean the difference between life and death,” said Josh Carrasco, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Our goal is to make sure all motorists arrive safely at their destination, including motorcyclists.”
AAA encourages drivers and motorcyclists not to drive impaired and to follow these safety tips:
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