3 Common Summertime Accidents

Everyone looks forward to summertime. Especially this summer as things are headed back to normal, more people will be out and about. While summer is a great time for fun and adventures, it also leads to a rise in accidents. Car accidents tend to rise during the summer months, with the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer falling between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Other types of accidents become more likely to occur in the summer as well. Let’s discuss some common summertime accidents so you can stay safe and stress-free this summer!

#1. Motorcycle Accidents

There are nearly 600,000 registered motorcycles in Florida. Not only this, but multiple major motorcycle events draw motorcyclists from all over the country down to Florida. In fact, about 500,000 people attend Daytona Bike Week each year.

This major influx of bikers in the state also means there is a higher chance for motorcycle related accidents.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

One of the biggest risks for motorcyclists is other drivers. Because motorcycles are significantly smaller than a car or truck, many other drivers don’t see motorcyclists on the road. This becomes even more likely when the car driver is distracted to begin with. Common distractions for drivers include:

• Looking at surrounding stores or scenery where they are driving
• Texting while driving
• Talking with passengers
• Adjusting music

When drivers are distracted, they are far less likely to pay attention to motorcycles on the road. This can lead to unnecessary collisions.

Road conditions that don’t affect cars and trucks can cause major problems for motorcycles.

The following road conditions could lead motorcyclists to lose control of their bike:

• Gravel
• Potholes
• Oil patches
• Wet pavement

Speeding causes accidents of all kinds, but is especially a problem for motorcycles. Because motorcyclists are not protected by vehicle doors or airbags, hitting stationary objects at a high speed can cause serious and potentially fatal injuries. If the motorcyclist is speeding and runs into any other risks, like gravel or other drivers, it increases the chances of an accident.

Motorcycle Injuries

Common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (especially if the driver was not wearing a helmet)
• Severe burns (especially if the driver had exposed skin)
• Paralysis
• Internal injury
• Bone fracture

According to the CDC, motorcycle helmets reduce the risk of death by 37%. Stay safe, wear a helmet, and keep your eyes out for any risks while riding your motorcycle this summer!

#2. Bicycle Accidents

A casual bike ride seems safe enough, right? Depending on where you’re riding, you may run into unexpected risks. Bicycle accidents can range from being mild to deadly.

Bike Accident Stats and Facts

• Over 800 bicyclists were killed by motor vehicles in 2019.
• 62% of bicyclists killed in 2019 were not wearing helmets.
• Males over 20 years old are most commonly injured in bicycle accidents.
• Most bicycle deaths occur in July and August.
• Most deaths occur between 6 pm and 9pm.

Types of Bike Accidents

Like with motorcycles, it is sometimes other cars on the road that put bicyclists at risk. One common type of bike accident is when a car takes a left-hand turn and doesn’t see the bicycle approaching, therefore driving into them. According to the NHTSA, bicyclists being hit by cars accounts for 30% of bicycle accidents.

Road conditions can also be dangerous for bicyclists. Potholes, loose gravel, rocks, and slick roads can all cause bicyclists to crash.

Rider error is also common for bicyclists. Motorcycles are viewed as dangerous, but bicycles are not. Because of this, bicyclists may take even fewer safety precautions simply because they don’t associate risk with riding a bike. Many bike injuries are sustained from riders falling or crashing due to their own mistakes.

Bicycle Safety

While you may not think that riding your bike could lead to serious injuries, it is possible and happens more frequently than many think. Make sure you are staying safe by:

• Wearing a helmet
• Watching for cars
• Using bike signals
• Go with the flow of traffic
• Follow the rules of the road just as other motor vehicles do

#3. Boating Accidents

When people are out on the water, they sometimes ignore the fact that there are laws for boating just like there are for driving. Boats are large, heavy vehicles that can cause serious damage if used recklessly. A unique risk factor for boating accidents, however, is the water itself.

Drowning

The Coast Guard reports that over 75% of boating accidents result in drowning, and well over half of those victims were not wearing life jackets. In addition to that, alcohol was the leading cause of all boating accidents.

Boating Under The Influence

The legal limit for boating is the same as that for driving, .08% BAC. If you are found to be over the legal limit, you face criminal penalties such as jail time, expensive fines, license suspension, probation, and more.

It is also important to note that implied consent laws apply to boating. This means that if you are stopped on the water and asked to take a breath test, you automatically consent. Refusal can lead to other penalties.

For some people, being out on the boat is reason enough to drink alcohol. Ensure that the operator of the boat knows the laws for BUI and stays sober.

Boating Safety

Stay safe at sea by following these measures:

• Have plenty of lifejackets on hand.
• Go out on the water with an experienced driver.
• Don’t drink and drive.
• Don’t overcrowd the boat.
• Don’t travel at excessive speeds.
• Pay attention to your surroundings and any objects in the water.

Injured in an Accident This Summer? We’re Here to Help

Most of the time, summer goes off without a hitch. However, if an accident does occur, it can be life-changing. If you or someone you love is injured in an accident this summer, Michles & Booth, P.A. is here to help. Our Florida personal injury attorneys have helped countless clients recover millions in the wake of serious accidents, and we may be able to help you, too.

Call Michles & Booth, P.A. at 850-438-4848 to schedule a free consultation.