Local news outlets such as Tampa Bay’s Fox 13 covered the end of the month rush at local license offices as many new riders tried to beat the implementation of the new law, as well as increased fees.  Coincidentally, the new law takes effect during a fuel crisis when many of the drivers interviewed by the media were switching from automobiles to the more fuel-efficient motorcycles or scooters.

Ironically, the law goes into effect following a weekend in which two Tampa Bay area motorcyclists lost their lives in separate incidents.  The first rider died on Interstate 75 in Tampa, while the second lost his life on the Courtney Campbell Causeway in Clearwater.

On the evening of June 28, 2008, a young man, Arius E. Fayson died in an accident on Interstate 75 in Hillsborough County, while on June 29, 2008 another unidentified motorcyclist was killed in an accident on the Courtney Campbell Causeway (State Road 60) in Clearwater.  These accidents follow a mid-week accident in which a Zephyrhills man, Christopher M. Brazas, was also killed in a motorcycle collision on County Road 54 in Pasco County, Florida.

Three unfortunate motorcycle deaths in less than a week is three too many.  Although not enough information is provided in press releases regarding details, the survivors of each individual decedent may have the ability to bring what is called a wrongful death claim in the state of Florida.  Florida has a two-year Statute of Limitations on wrongful death claims, and the survivors should seek advice of counsel if the facts warrant pursuit of this type of claim.