Ride Proud, Dress Loud -- But Not Too Loud
As I’ve mentioned on this blog before, the rate of fatal motorcycle accidents in the United States is climbing up -- way up, more than doubling since 1997. That’s true for Florida as well. In response, the Florida Highway Patrol has launched a “Ride Proud, Dress Loud” campaign encouraging motorcyclists to wear bright colors to help drivers see them.
The campaign is trying to get bikers’ attention with signs promoting bright clothes like neon-green chaps. As I or any other experienced motorcyclist could have told them, bikers are laughing their heads off at the idea that they’d wear neon-green anything. But despite that, it isn’t a bad idea to encourage more bright clothing. Research shows that a major cause of motorcycle accidents is drivers’ failure to see motorcycles. Bright or shiny clothes and gear is one way to make sure they can see you.
But noise is another, and that’s where Florida law isn’t helping. Controversy has developed recently over a Florida law making it illegal to modify an exhaust pipe to be any louder than the original manufacturer’s pipe. In addition, bikes (and cars) made after January 1, 1979 can’t exceed 78 decibels at speeds of 35 mph or less and 82 decibels at higher speeds -- even if that’s the sound produced by the manufacturer’s original exhaust pipes. This is a problem for motorcyclists, because loudness is another important way we can help drivers realize we’re in traffic. Under these laws, bikers face a choice between protecting themselves as thoroughly as possible or dealing with a flood of $75 tickets and harassment from law enforcement.
As a rider, I believe we should be doing everything we can to prevent motorcycle accidents, which cause wrongful deaths and tragic, preventable disabilities like brain damage and spinal injuries. Given the “Ride Proud, Dress Loud” campaign, the State of Florida seems to agree, so it’s puzzling and disappointing that it wouldn’t be willing to allow reasonable alterations to OEM mufflers as well.
If you’ve done what you can to protect yourself and you were still hurt in a serious motorcycle accident caused by a driver’s carelessness, please contact my law firm, Cohn, Smith & Cohn today for a free consultation.
