‘Even one life lost is too many’: JSO issues warning about spike in deadly motorcycle crashes

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office issued a warning Tuesday for drivers because of a spike in deadly motorcycle crashes in 2025.

Hours later, another rider was killed on a Jacksonville highway.

Tuesday morning, JSO posted on social media, saying this time last year, 16 motorcycle fatalities had been reported in Duval County.

So far this year, there have been 25, including one Tuesday night on State Road 9B at I-95.

“Even one life lost is too many,” JSO wrote.

Christian Hancock with JSO stressed the importance of community action.

“It’s incumbent upon us, when we see an issue in the community, to address that issue. So what we’re looking at is to educate the public.” Hancock said, “The most common thing is speed… Once you hit certain speeds, you…don’t have the ability to stop.”

Hancock outlined how these tragedies unfold, especially when motorists fail to spot motorcycles.

“A lot of times we will look through them to see the car that’s 100 yards behind them...then we have a crash,” Hancock said.

JSO encouraged both riders and drivers to be careful on the roadways.

The Sheriff’s Office reminded riders to wear the right gear, slow down, watch the road surface and brake smoothly.

Safety recommendations from the sheriff’s office include:

• Riders: Wear proper gear, slow down, watch road surfaces, brake smoothly, and improve visibility with bright clothing and lighting.
• Drivers: Look twice for motorcycles, give them space, stay focused, and use caution when turning—especially left turns.

JSO also encouraged riders to take one of the free motorcycle safety classes offered by the department. The next one is this Saturday. To learn more and register for the course, click here.

The Sheriff’s Office also reminded drivers that they have a responsibility to share the road with motorcycles.

“Look twice for motorcycles, give them space, be cautious when turning, and stay focused,” JSO wrote. “Jacksonville, let’s work together to make sure everyone gets home safely.”