Wearing a Helmet is the Best Way to Prevent Palm Beach County Motorcycle Accident Deaths

The good news is that in 2010 car accident deaths in the United States reached an all-time low. The bad news is that while auto accident deaths are decreasing, motorcyclist deaths are increasing. The number of motorcyclist deaths doubled between 1999 and 2008. In 2008, 5,312 people died in motorcycle accidents. Motorcycle deaths and injuries that year totaled more than $12 billion in medical care and loss of productivity.

Can anything be done to prevent Palm Beach County motorcycle accident deaths?

Yes, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 800 of the lives lost in 2010 could have been saved if the motorcyclist was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. Helmets offer the best protection from head injury and death in the event of a Florida motorcycle accident. In fact, it is estimated that helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 69 percent and can prevent 37 percent of fatal motorcycle accident injuries for motorcycle operators and 41 percent of fatal motorcycle accident injuries for passengers.

Helmet laws are determined by states. In Florida, helmets were mandatory until 2000. Under current law, any person who is at least 21 years of age and has at least $10,000 worth of medical coverage insurance may operate or ride a motorcycle without a helmet. In 2001, after the change in law took effect, motorcycle accident deaths in Florida increased by 48 percent. The number of accident victims sustaining serious brain injuries also increased.

West Palm Beach motorcycle accident attorney David Glatthorn urges motorcyclists to wear their helmets.

Unfortunately, motorcyclists who take risks impact all motorcyclists. If you have been injured in a Palm Beach County motorcycle crash, the insurance company may take advantage of motorcyclist stereotypes and try to place the blame on you even if you were not at fault. Motorcyclists, like other accident victims, deserve fair compensation. West Palm Beach motorcycle accident attorney David Glatthorn will fight to make sure your rights are protected. To learn more about Florida motorcycle injury claims, request a free copy of Attorney David Glatthorn’s book, The Florida Accident Workbook: Tools, Tips & Tactics to Resolve Your Injury Claim, or contact David Glatthorn at 888-340-2620. The initial consultation is free.