April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month
Every year, April marks a time to spotlight one of the most dangerous behaviors on the road. Distracted driving remains one of the most common and most preventable causes of accidents across Tampa and throughout Florida – and motorcyclists are especially vulnerable.
Motorcycle accidents can have a devastating impact on riders and their families. On Tampa’s busy roads, from I-275 and the Selmon Expressway to local streets in Ybor City and South Tampa, just a few seconds of inattention can cause a crash that leaves motorcyclists with serious and sometimes fatal injuries.
Why motorcyclists face an increased risk
Unlike cars or trucks, motorcycles offer no external protection. Riders are smaller, harder to see, and more exposed to injury when struck. That means even a brief moment of distraction by a driver – reading a text, adjusting the radio, or glancing at GPS – can have life-altering consequences if a driver fails to notice a nearby motorcycle.
Distracted drivers are more likely to:
- Fail to yield when a motorcyclist has the right of way.
- Make unsafe lane changes, sideswiping riders in adjacent lanes.
- Rear-end motorcycles at traffic lights or in slow traffic.
- Turn left into oncoming motorcycles at intersections—one of the most dangerous and common crash scenarios.
Because motorcycles are smaller and quicker than other vehicles, drivers need to be fully alert to recognize their presence in traffic. When a driver is distracted, they may never even see the rider until it’s too late.
Common forms of distracted driving
Many forms of distraction remain common on Tampa roads. These include:
- Texting or using a smartphone
- Scrolling social media or GPS apps
- Eating or drinking behind the wheel
- Talking to passengers or daydreaming
- Adjusting music or climate controls
Even hands-free devices can reduce a driver’s attention, making them less likely to detect smaller, faster-moving motorcycles nearby.
Holding distracted drivers accountable can be complicated
Negligent drivers usually don’t admit that they were distracted. A thorough investigation can uncover the evidence that proves negligence. This may include:
- Obtaining cell phone records to show texting or app use.
- Reviewing traffic or surveillance camera footage.
- Interviewing witnesses who saw the driver distracted.
- Examining vehicle “black box” data for sudden stops or erratic movement.
Proving distraction is critical to securing the full compensation our clients deserve for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term recovery. That’s why it’s important to have an experienced Tampa motorcycle accident lawyer on your side.
We’re ready to fight for you—And Win
At Armando Personal Injury Law, we know how serious injuries from a motorcycle accident can affect your life. We are also familiar with the tactics insurance companies use to try to pay you less. They may question the seriousness of your injuries or make a lowball settlement offer. They may even try to blame you for what happened.
Our dedicated legal team investigates your accident to get the facts that prove a negligent driver caused the accident. We build a strong case and fight for the maximum financial compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our firm knows how to get results, including a $100,000 settlement for a motorcyclist who suffered neck and back injuries in an accident.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle wreck, learn more about how we can help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Tampa motorcycle accident lawyer.
“Armando and his team are truly amazing!!! They are so supportive and fantastic to work with. Armando was very thorough in making sure I understood the process and throughout my case. You cannot go wrong with going to Armando and his team after an auto accident! I can’t say enough about their professionalism and knowledge.” – E.R., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐