Tampa Revs Up for the Thunder by the Bay Music and Motorcycle Fest

If you’re into loud music and even louder motorcycles then you’re going to love Thunder by the Bay, the festival which is returning to the Tama area to mark 25 years since it was first hosted.

Here’s a look at what this year’s event has to offer, and what locals who aren’t planning to attend should do to prepare for it as well.

The roar of the engines, the wailing of guitars

There are lots of events happening along the Gulf Coast each month, but few can match Thunder by the Bay in terms of their raw rock and roll credentials.

Since originally taking place in 1998, this festival has become a staple of the calendar for anyone who loves listening to pounding drums, throbbing bass and screaming guitar licks, all pumped out by some icons of the music scene from throughout the decades.

Headliners at the festival, hosted between February 17-19 this year, include classic rockers 38 Special, as well as country rap crossover stalwart Colt Ford.

The music is only half the story of course, as there will also be hundreds of vendors, stunt shows, food trucks, and so much more to see and do.

Most significantly this is a charity event, and supports local good causes which look out for less fortunate youngsters throughout the region. So every penny you spend if you attend will partly go towards helping make a positive difference.

The considerations for attendees

If you’re going to be heading to one, two or all three days of Thunder by the Bay, remember that with more motorcycles on the roads comes the increased risk of a collision.

Working with local legal experts, like the Fernandez Firm accident injury lawyers where bikers are diligently represented in any claims or disputes, is the best way to resolve any issues that arise from your attendance. This applies whether or not you actually ride a motorcycle, because of course accidents involving multiple parties can impact you regardless of your mode of transport of choice.

The importance of safety when driving in Florida

Florida’s crash statistics make grim reading, with thousands of collisions occurring weekly, and death rates higher in this part of the country than in many others.

This is an important fact to take onboard if you’re thinking of visiting Thunder by the Bay, or if you’re just an average motorist or pedestrian in another area of the state.

There are a few things you can do to stay safe and share the highways and surface streets with everyone else while reducing risks and avoiding dangers, including:

Driving within the speed limit

The speed limit is there for a reason. Disobey it, and you’ll be dicing with death, and risking the lives of others.

Looking out for motorcycles

Motorcycles can creep up into your blind spots quickly, so always double check before executing maneuvers like changing lanes.

Wearing the right gear

For motorcyclists, having appropriate safety equipment, including a helmet, will dramatically reduce the likelihood of serious injury or death in the event of a collision.

Keeping your vehicle in good shape

Lastly, a well-maintained car or motorcycle will be safer and also more economical, which is good for your health and also good for your bank balance.

Wrapping up

If you want to experience all that Thunder by the Bay has to offer, then you’ll need to act fast to nab a ticket. It’s actually a great event for the whole family; just be careful about how you travel to it, and do your part to reduce the dangers on the road.

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