Alejandro Figueroa | December 26, 2021 | Motorcycle Accidents
You live in Tampa, and you love it. But the commute may be less than ideal. If you’re thinking about investing in a motorcycle to make your commute more fun, there’s a lot to consider. Is it really worth the upfront costs?
There are so many good things about the motorcycling community. With a bike, you’ll have the chance to join a group of people who grab life by the handlebars. Plus, you’ll take advantage of these excellent benefits.
You May Have a Quicker Commute
Motorcycles are more agile than standard vehicles. Plus, they have an easier time navigating packed city streets. So if your number one goal is a quicker commute, you can’t go wrong with a motorcycle. Just make sure to follow Florida law and avoid the oh-so-tempting idea of lane splitting.
You Can Improve Your Physical and Mental Health
The thrill and fresh air of a motorcycle ride just might boost your mood and your health. Maneuvering a large bike requires stamina and strength; as you improve in your riding skills, your core muscles will likely get stronger, too.
If you don’t believe that riding can improve your mental health, ask a friend if you can take one for a spin. Between the exercise and the open road, you might feel the thrill almost instantly.
You’ll Enhance Your Cool Factor
There are no two ways about it: riding a motorcycle is cool. And if you really want to impress, invest in a quality leather jacket while you’re at it. As an added bonus, it can help to protect you from injuries like road rash in the event of a motorcycle accident.
You’ll Spend Less Money on Gas
The sticker shock of a new motorcycle may be enough to dissuade you. But if you’re willing to look down the road a bit, you may find that a bike is actually a pretty economical choice.
These vehicles are much easier (and cheaper) to maintain. Plus, they require a lot less gas to operate. In this day and age, that fact alone is enough to save you a small fortune.
Motorcycle Drawbacks
There’s no denying that motorcycle riding is great, but the activity does have its drawbacks.
You’ll Be Vulnerable to Wet Weather
Thankfully, Tampa does not have to deal with snow or ice. Still, the city sees about 51 inches of rain each year, which is well above the national average. For most travelers, rainfall isn’t a deterrent. But for bikers, a little rain can amount to a lot of danger.
The consequences of hydroplaning can be much more catastrophic on a bike. So, if you’re worried about your ability to maneuver a bike through wet roads, a motorcycle may not be the best choice for you.
You’re More Likely to Become Injured
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, people on motorcycles are about 29 times more likely to die in an accident than traditional drivers.
Of course, if you are willing to invest in safety instruction and gear, a motorcycle may still be worth the investment. Just make sure you understand the risks before going all-in on your decision.
If You Opt for a Motorcycle, Follow These Safety Tips
The first step to safe riding is to take a safety course. In Florida, this is actually a requirement for obtaining your license. From there, you should also:
- Check the weather before you ride
- Keep a safe distance between your bike and other vehicles
- Obey all traffic laws
- Wear protective gear, including a DOT-approved helmet
These steps will help you avoid a motorcycle accident. If you do become injured on your bike, remember to call a Tampa motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible.
Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Law Firm in Tampa, FL
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Tampa, FL, and need legal help, contact our Tampa motorcycle accident lawyers at Catania & Catania Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
Catania & Catania Injury Lawyers
Bank of America Plaza
101 E Kennedy Blvd #2400
Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 222-8656
We also provide legal assistance throughout the Tampa Bay Area including Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, and Bradenton.
