JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Duval County is on track to see more motorcycle deaths than last year.
On Thursday, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office said 39 people have died this year in motorcycle crashes on Jacksonville roads, which is 14 more deaths compared to this time last year.
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“That’s 39 families who will have an empty seat at the table this holiday season,” JSO wrote in a Facebook post.
JSO said speed is the number one factor in many of these deaths, and urged motorcyclists to slow down and ride carefully.
The agency also asked drivers to keep their eyes on the road and be cautious around motorcyclists.
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News4JAX spoke with Crime and Safety Analyst Tom Hackney about the upward trend in deadly motorcycle crashes.
“It is so sad that we are in the position that we are because, for the most part, these are preventable crashes,” Hackney said. “It’s nothing more than taking that extra second when you’re changing lanes.”
Hackney said motorcyclists shouldn’t assume drivers will see them, which is why it’s important to ride as safely as possible. He also emphasized the importance of wearing helmets and other protective gear.
JSO said while it is increasing its traffic enforcement, it is up to the whole community to ensure roads are safe for everyone.
“Even one fatality is too many,” JSO said.