Motorcyclists are overrepresented in crashes and fatalities. In 2018, 4,985 motorcyclists lost their lives on America's roads, a 4.7% decrease from the year prior.1
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides the following statistics on motorcycle safety in the United States:
- Helmet Use
NHTSA estimates that motorcycle helmets saved an estimated 1,872 lives in 2017. If all motorcyclists had worn helmets, an additional 749 lives could have been saved.2 - Impaired Riding
In 2017, there were 4,885 motorcycle riders killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes. Of those, 1,357 (28%) were alcohol-impaired (BAC of .08 or higher).2 - Speeding
In 2017, 32% of all motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were speeding.2
States use both national and statewide data to find the right mix of rider education, enforcement and laws to decrease deaths and injuries resulting from motorcycle crashes.
1 National Center for Statistics and Analysis. (2019, October). 2018 fatal motor vehicle crashes: Overview. (Traffic Safety Facts Research Note. Report No. DOT HS 812 826). Washington, DC: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
2 National Center for Statistics and Analysis. (2019, August). Motorcycles: 2017 data (Updated, Traffic Safety Facts. Report No. DOT HS 812 785). Washington, DC: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
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