Number Of Deaths By Motorcycle Per Year
Riding a motorcycle can be a thrilling experience, but it can also be dangerous. Motorcycles are less visible on the road, and riders are more exposed to the elements and potential hazards. Unfortunately, the statistics show that riding a motorcycle can also be deadly. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the number of deaths by motorcycle per year in the United States.
Motorcycle Fatality Statistics
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 5,014 motorcycle fatalities in 2019. This represents a 0.5% decrease from 2018, but still accounts for 14% of all traffic fatalities in the United States. In addition to fatalities, there were also 84,000 motorcyclists injured in crashes in 2019.
Risk Factors for Motorcycle Fatalities
There are several risk factors that contribute to motorcycle fatalities. One major factor is alcohol impairment. According to the NHTSA, 29% of motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes in 2018 had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Another factor is speeding. In 2018, 33% of motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were speeding. Finally, not wearing a helmet is also a major risk factor. In states without universal helmet laws, 59% of motorcyclists killed in 2018 were not wearing helmets.
State-by-State Motorcycle Fatality Statistics
Motorcycle fatality rates vary widely by state. According to the NHTSA, the states with the highest motorcycle fatality rates per registered motorcycle in 2019 were South Carolina (21.7 per 10,000 registered motorcycles), Mississippi (20.3), and Arizona (19.5). The states with the lowest fatality rates were Vermont (2.3), Massachusetts (2.6), and Rhode Island (2.8). It is worth noting that these rates are affected by a variety of factors, including weather, population density, and helmet laws.
Preventing Motorcycle Fatalities
There are several steps that riders can take to reduce their risk of a motorcycle fatality. First and foremost, wearing a helmet can greatly reduce the risk of head injury in a crash. In addition, riders should always ride sober and obey speed limits and traffic laws. Riders should also invest in high-visibility gear, such as reflective jackets or helmets, to increase their visibility on the road. Finally, riders should consider taking a motorcycle safety course to improve their skills and reduce their risk of an accident.
Conclusion
While riding a motorcycle can be a thrilling experience, it is important to be aware of the risks involved. The statistics show that motorcycle fatalities are a significant problem in the United States, but there are steps that riders can take to reduce their risk of an accident. By wearing a helmet, riding sober, obeying traffic laws, and investing in high-visibility gear, riders can enjoy the open road while staying safe.