Motorcyclist Killed on University Parkway in Sarasota, Florida (FL)

Motorcycle crashes

SARASOTA, FL- Mysuncoast.com writes that a motorcycle crash left one person dead this week in Sarasota, Florida. The incident occurred when the motorcyclist was involved in a crash with another vehicle on University Parkway at the intersection with Kentucky Street in Sarasota, Florida. The crash took place in the evening when the driver, who was operating a sedan, attempted to turn left onto University Parkway off of Kentucky Street. The sedan entered the lane in which the motorcycle was traveling, leading to the deadly crash. The motorcycle’s front collided with the driver’s side of the car. The motorcyclist was killed in the impact, and the driver suffered severe injuries.

In 2018, the number of motorcycle crashes decreased nationally by five percent. While the number shows a decline in these tragic wrecks, motorcyclists are still accounting for a much higher number of deaths. In fact, 4,985 people died in motorcycle wrecks in 2018. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that the risk of death faced by motorcyclists is about 28 times as high as that which other vehicle occupants face.

Many of the risks with which motorcyclists must contend are caused by other drivers on the road. Because they are smaller, motorists often fail to notice motorcycles on the road. When operating a motorcycle, wearing bright colors or reflective gear can help ensure that others on the road notice a motorcycle, and therefore do not cut into that person’s path. Using headlights, and even keeping the high beams on when riding in the daytime, can also make a motorcycle more visible.

It is still vital that all riders use a helmet, learn how to properly operate their vehicles, and avoid riding after using alcohol or drugs.