New Data Shows the Most Motorcycle Deaths Since 1975

Did you know? New data from 2023 shows the highest number of motorcycle fatalities since 1975. With more accidents happening than ever, here’s what you need to know about motorcycle safety and how to handle a collision.

Motorcycle Deaths Account for 15% of Traffic Fatalities

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 2023, there were a total of 6,335 motorcycle fatalities across the nation. On average, this accounts for nearly 15% of all traffic fatalities. Considering that only 3% of all registered vehicles are motorcycles, according to the Motorcycle Industry Council, it paints a clear picture of the danger motorcycles present.

Why Do Motorcycle Accidents Happen?

Motorcycle crashes happen for a variety of reasons, but some of the most common include:

Drunk Driving

Out of all motorcycle accidents that occurred in 2022, 42% involved alcohol. This figure increased from 34% in 2021. Of the motorcyclists who died in alcohol-related collisions, 28% had a blood alcohol level over the legal limit.

Time of Day

The NHTSA also reports that 64% of motorcycle collisions occurred during daylight hours. While you might think riding a motorcycle is more dangerous at night, only 36% of accidents occur after the sun goes down.

Location

More motorcycle accidents occur in the city than on the highway. In fact, only 7% of injury-only collisions occur on interstate highways.

Not Wearing a Proper Helmet

During that same year, 33.5% of motorcycle helmets worn were not compliant with the Department of Transportation (DOT). However, an approved helmet can reduce the chances of dying in an accident by almost 70%, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Read more about motorcycle helmets:

The Importance of Bicycle Helmets (Podcast)

How Not Wearing a Helmet Affects Motorcycle Crash Claims in Massachusetts

Inherent Risk

Unfortunately, even when alcohol and improper helmeting aren’t an issue, there is still plenty of inherent risk involved. In 2021, more than 60% of motorcycle accidents were deadly. Just a year later, data shows that motorcycle riders were 22 times more likely to die in a crash than people driving a car. They were also four times more likely to be seriously hurt.

Motorcycle Safety Tips to Know

Besides wearing a DOT-approved helmet and protective clothing on every trip, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation recommends the following to help keep riders safer on the road:

Stay Visible to Drivers

One of the most common claims drivers make after hitting a motorcycle is that they “couldn’t see” the rider. While this may or may not be true in every case, it’s always safer to assume that motor vehicle drivers can’t see you. Then, you can take steps to make yourself more visible, like:

Keep your headlight and taillights on at all times
Wear reflective clothing and/or add reflective tape to your motorcycle
Never ride in a car or truck’s blind spot

Maintain Awareness of Your Surroundings

It’s also crucial to be aware of your surroundings at all times. You should:

Continually look around you for changing conditions
Anticipate the actions of other drivers
Leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front of you
Use your turn signals, especially to indicate lane changes
Never weave in and out through traffic

Know Your Bike

Finally, make sure you’re an educated rider and you know your bike. You should be comfortable riding it and feel confidently in control on the road. Consider making a pre-ride check a habit to be sure that everything is working properly before you head out.

How to Get Justice for Your Family After a Motorcycle Accident

If you or a loved one were hurt in a motorcycle collision, our Salem personal injury attorneys can help. Contact Mazow | McCullough, PC today at (978) 744-8000 or toll-free at (855) 693-9084 to learn more about your rights after an accident or to schedule your free initial case consultation.