In 2024, Florida had more motorcycle deaths than any other state in the country for the third straight year. And 2025 is not off to a good start for deadly motorcycle accidents.
According to preliminary data from Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, through February 13, there have been 44 motorcycle accident deaths in 843 crashes. In one eight-day period in January, four motorcyclists were killed in three separate accidents.
In Duval County, there were eight fatalities in 52 motorcycle crashes, leading all 67 counties in the state. Jacksonville averaged one motorcycle death every 5.5 days through February 13.
In 2024, there were 9,420 motorcycle crashes in Florida, resulting in 578 fatalities, according to highway safety statistics.
Why are motorcycle accidents so deadly?
Motorcycle accidents are often more deadly than car accidents due to:
- Lack of protection – Unlike cars, motorcycles do not have a protective structure, such as a metal frame, airbags, or seat belts. This exposes riders directly to impact forces.
- High risk of ejection – In most motorcycle crashes, riders are thrown from their bikes, increasing the chances of hitting the ground, other vehicles, or stationary objects at high speeds.
- Less stability – Motorcycles have only two wheels, making them inherently less stable than four-wheeled vehicles, especially when braking suddenly or maneuvering sharply.
- Smaller size & visibility – Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see than cars, and too many drivers miss them because they aren’t paying enough attention to the road.
- Lack of helmet use – In Florida, helmet use is not required for riders over the age of 21 if they carry an insurance policy with at least $10,000 in medical insurance coverage. But riders who don’t wear helmets are more vulnerable to serious and sometimes fatal injuries.
How do negligent drivers cause fatal motorcycle crashes?
Negligent drivers cause fatal motorcycle crashes in several ways, often due to reckless or inattentive behavior. Examples include:
- Failing to yield the right of way – Many motorcycle accidents happen because drivers fail to see motorcycles or misjudge their speed, often at intersections.
- Distracted driving – Texting, talking on the phone, adjusting GPS, or eating while driving can cause drivers to overlook motorcycles.
- Speeding – Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases impact force in a crash.
- Driving under the influence (DUI) – Alcohol or drug-impaired drivers have reduced coordination, slower reaction times, and poor judgment.
- Aggressive driving – Unsafe lane changes, following too closely (tailgating), and running red lights and stop signs increase the risk of a crash.
legal options for loved ones of Fatal motorcycle accidents
In Florida, the loved ones of a motorcyclist killed in an accident may file a wrongful death lawsuit under the Florida Wrongful Death Act (Fla. Stat. § 768.16–768.26) if someone else’s negligence caused the accident.
A personal representative (executor) of the deceased’s estate must file the lawsuit on behalf of the surviving family members. The personal representative is usually named in the deceased’s will or estate plan. If there is no will, the court will appoint one.
Eligible beneficiaries who can recover damages include:
- Spouse
- Children
- Parents
- Blood relatives or adoptive siblings who were dependent on the deceased for financial support
Let A Tampa motorcycle accident lawyer fight for you
At Armando Personal Injury Law, we understand the impact that the loss of a loved one can have and believe that family members deserve justice. Our firm investigates fatal motorcycle accidents and gathers evidence to hold negligent parties accountable. We handle all communication with the insurance company and will fight for the financial compensation that you deserve.
Our firm has recovered millions for clients in Tampa and throughout Florida, including a $100,000 policy limits settlement for a motorcyclist who suffered a broken leg after being rear-ended. Learn more about how we can help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
“We can't bring back our loved one, but Armando Personal Injury Law has played an instrumental role in helping us heal and move forward. For anyone seeking a law firm that is not only highly skilled but also genuinely cares for their clients, we highly recommend Armando Personal Injury Law. Their expertise and dedication are unmatched.” – Lee L., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐