The Number Of Motorcycle Fatalities Has Dramatically Increased In The Last Decade

More people than ever are getting motorcycles theses days and with that has come an increase in accidents and fatalities over the past few years.

According to the National Traffic Safety Board (NTSB) the number of bike fatalities have doubled from 1997-2009. This is an alarming statistic. A few factors go into causing such grim stats:

• Motorcycles have successfully campaigned and appealed to youth. Fast, cool, often more affordable than a car and great on gas. 
• As mentioned above, gas. It is a fraction of the cost to fill up a bike than a car and great distances can be traveled on a single tank. Though gas prices are currently moderate, gas was over five dollars a gallon five years ago. When such an economic burden hits, we look for ways to save. Many people's answer to that was, a motorcycle. 
• In the haste to buy a bike, many were forgoing the safety lessons that come along with a motorcycle. Some even neglect to obtain the proper operators license. It is important to make safety a ritual when operating any vehicle, especially a motorcycle. One must have all of their faculties about them when riding. When something as small as a rock could cause an accident, safety and awareness are paramount. 
• If you're thinking about getting a motorcycle do your homework. A motorcycle isn't an impulse decision. Visit ntsb.gov for a look at safety tips and statistics. 

Contact Orlando Personal Injury Attorney Jeffrey Sexton at 888-293-1144 or at sextonlaw.com, if you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident.

The Greatest Risk Of Returning To School Is Approaching And Leaving The Bus

As summer comes to an end, you will notice a significant increase in traffic as children return to school. The National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports "For twenty-three million students nationwide, the school day begins and ends with a trip on a school bus. The greatest risk is not riding the bus, but approaching or leaving the bus."

With increased traffic there needs to come increased awareness from all who share the road.


Safety Tips For Students

- When waiting for the bus, wait in the designated area only. Make sure to stay clear away from the street so the bus has plenty of room. Mirrors and other parts may surpass the dimensions of the vehicle and can easily strike a bystander.

- When entering and exiting the bus, ALWAYS cross in FRONT of the driver. All buses are equipped with rear stop sign to impede traffic behind from passing. With that being said, look both ways.

- Never hang out of a window or throw anything from it. The smallest object could cause a catastrophic accident on the road.

Safety Tips For Motorists

- Whether you have children or not, familiarize yourself with school zone rules. Always obey the reduced speed signs. Many states enforce school zone laws even when school isn’t in session.

- Never pass a bus that is stopped and letting children on/off. All school buses are equipped with a stop sign on the rear and it is to be obeyed as any permanently fixed sign.

Make sure to always buckle up and obey traffic laws. Be aware of the time. If it is morning or afternoon there is a good chance students are in the area.