Since 1947, the US Marine Corps Reserve has been gathering toys to help needy children across the United States enjoy the blessings of a joyful Christmas season. Almost since its inception, motorcycle clubs have played an integral part in its efforts.

1. Melbourne Motorcycle Attorney Advises Caution Over the Holidays
According to the National Highway Safety Administration, Florida is the most dangerous
state in the country to ride a motorcycle. This should come as little surprise when you
factor in its large per capita riding population, the high traffic counts brought on annually
by the tourist industry and the large numbers of older drivers who migrate to the state
each year. While all of these factors are well established, it may come as a surprise to many
that the holiday season from Thanksgiving through New Year's is one the most dangerous
periods to be a motorcyclist in the Sunshine State.
To a great extent, this is due to the large number of people who overindulge at holiday
festivities and then climb behind the wheel of a vehicle. There are other factors, though,
that come into play. For a keener insight, we contacted Brad Sinclair, an often-quoted
motorcycle accident attorney based in Melbourne, Florida.
Brad had this to say: “There is little doubt that alcohol and other substances play a large
role in the number of motorcycle accidents that occur over the holidays. More and more,
though, distractions are moving up the list of accident causes, and not just for drivers. In
recent years I have observed a large increase in the number of distracted walking cases
that come into my office.”
He continued, “Not only are people intoxicated and walking out into streets, but they are
busy on their cell phones and preoccupied with running errands and shopping. Everyone
seems to be in a rush, and pedestrians simply don’t register bikes as they would larger
vehicles. This leads to them walking out in front of them and being struck. With the bike's
size and weight advantage but inherent instability, this is a lose-lose proposition. My best
advice is for everyone to be a little more cautious.”
Sinclair’s comments would appear to be well-founded. According to the National Safety
Council, pedestrian/motorcycle accidents have seen a drastic increase over the last several
years and are particularly prevalent this time of year. This trend is not only evident in
Florida but in other states such as California and Texas that also have large motorcycle
riding populations.
The numbers don't lie. Pedestrian/motorcycle accidents are on the rise nationwide.
Melbourne-based motorcycle attorney Brad Sinclair provides insight beyond the figures.