Motorcycle Crashes: Statistics and Facts

There may be advantages to riding a motorcycle, especially in maintenance and fuel efficiency. It also boosts your endorphin levels, putting you in a better mood and mental state.

However, there are multiple risks associated with motorcycle riding, which is why having motorcycle insurance is always in your best interest. Motorcycles are more susceptible to weather conditions, and riders are more likely to be injured or worse. In 2020 alone, 5,579 motorcyclists and passengers were killed and 84,000 were injured, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

In 2020, considering that motorcycles only made up 3% of all registered vehicles in the country, they contributed 14% of all traffic fatalities.

The table below provides the number of reported motorcycle injuries and fatalities from 2010 to 2020.

The most fatalities from motorcycle crashes occurred in 2016 and 2020, with decade-high numbers of 5,337 and 5,579, respectively. Fortunately, we've seen a consistent downward trend since then. Still, it's important to note that the numbers are still above 5,000.

Regarding injuries, we see the highest numbers in 2012 and 2016. In 2017 and 2018, there were fewer injuries but figures increased by 2.39% from 2018 to 2019. Numbers dropped by 1.53% in 2020.

It's crucial to note that injuries have never dropped below 81,000 in any given year in the last decade.

The number of fatalities varies between states. In 2020, for example, Florida had more than 500 incidents reported, while the District of Columbia only had seven. MoneyGeek's guide shows which states contributed more fatalities than others. Darker-colored ones are those with higher figures. Conversely, those in lighter shades experience fewer motorcycle accident fatalities.

Florida, California, Texas, Ohio and Pennsylvania are the states with the highest number of fatalities. They contributed to around 37% of motorcycle accident deaths in 2020, despite laws requiring riders to wear helmets.

Out of the five states with the highest fatalities, only California and North Carolina enacted universal helmet laws for all riders, regardless of age. For the other three states, the regulation only applies to riders younger than 20.

Fortunately, Vermont, Alaska and the District of Columbia each reported less than ten fatalities in 2020.

Demographically, motorcycle riders are of all ages — some are younger than 16, and others are older than 65. MoneyGeek explores how different age groups contribute to the number of fatalities. The chart below breaks this down into 12 different segments.

In 2020, the age group that contributed most to fatalities from motorcycle crashes were riders between 25 and 29. However, it's considerable that drivers aged 50 and older account for 36% of all fatalities.

About half of fatalities occurred during weekends, between 6:00 p.m. on Friday and 5:59 a.m. on Monday. That's worth noting because although approximately half took place during the week, Monday to Friday, that's over a span of five days as opposed to two.

The surrounding environment is likely to impact motorcycles and their riders. MoneyGeek's guide provides data showing where motorcycle crashes typically occur. First, we compared incidents between rural and urban areas. The Federal Highway Administration defines an urban area as having at least 2,500 people. One thousand five hundred must live outside institutional group quarters, such as nursing homes or correctional facilities.

MoneyGeek also looked at fatalities at intersections and non-intersections. Our findings show that more deadly crashes occur in the latter. The infographic below offers more information.

At 61%, most fatalities from motorcycle accidents happen in urban areas. Riders are more likely to share the road with other motorists and pedestrians in these locations since it's more densely populated.

The most common motorcycle accidents at intersections include speeding, running a red light or failing to yield when turning. However, despite having more traffic and directional changes, fewer fatalities were recorded at intersections in 2020.

Non-intersections expose riders to varying road conditions, including uneven road surfaces, gravel on pavements and other obstructions. Motorcycles, being less stable than vehicles with four wheels, are more prone to crash.

Weather conditions may significantly affect road conditions and, consequently, rider safety. For example, fog lowers visibility, making it difficult to see other motorists. Rain or snow decreases traction, making slips and skids more likely. Additionally, time of day is a factor. One would guess that riding conditions would be more hazardous at dawn, dusk or night than during the day.

It may come as a surprise, but most motorcycle accident fatalities (57%) happened during the day. Nighttime driving comes in second, contributing 37%. Despite being lower, practicing safe driving at night is always a wise choice. Dusk and dawn had the fewest contributions, with 4% and 1%, respectively.

MoneyGeek's infographic shows the different weather conditions when motorcycle crashes occurred in 2020.

Ninety-seven percent of fatalities occurred during “good weather” — clear or cloudy skies. About 2% occurred when it was raining and 1% when fog, snow or sleet was present. Riders can never be too careful, and it's always best to prepare for a motorcycle ride, regardless of weather conditions.

With the number of fatalities recorded from motorcycle crashes each year, you can't help but wonder why these happen.

MoneyGeek's guide identifies some unsafe driving practices that may have contributed. We explore how drunk driving, driving beyond allowable speed limits, lack of protective headgear, weaving in and out of traffic and errors in judgment can lead to motorcycle accidents.

Despite the number of fatalities from motorcycle crashes, there are several strategies riders can apply to their lives to increase driver safety. These include having the appropriate protective gear, increasing your visibility on the road and practicing safe driving behaviors.

The number of fatalities due to motorcycle accidents can be alarming. MoneyGeek's guide gathered commonly asked questions about it to provide more information.

Knowing these statistics on motorcycle crash fatalities can cause concern — and it should prompt riders to think twice before getting on the road. Let that sense of caution fuel increased driver responsibility. Fortunately, there's no lack of online resources that can help keep you and others safe.

• Road Safety Study: Best and Worst States for Drivers: Some states are safer than others. MoneyGeek’s study includes traffic fatalities, the number of uninsured drivers and helmet use.
• Safe Driving: Protecting You and Your Loved Ones on the Road This Winter: Cold weather isn’t ideal for motorcycle riders, but MoneyGeek shares several strategies that can help keep you safe on the road.
• The Real Costs of a DUI and How to Avoid Them: In 2019, more than a quarter of motorcycle accident fatalities involved a BAC of 0.08%. Consider the other consequences of driving under the influence, even if it doesn’t result in death.
• 2022’s Most Dangerous Days for DUIs: Some days lead to a higher DUI count than others. See which days are the most significant contributors.
• A Guide to Choosing and Budgeting Your First Motorcycle: Despite the risks, some motorists still prefer to ride bikes over cars. If you’re leaning in this direction, you can use this page to ensure you’re considering all angles before purchasing one.
• Do You Need Motorcycle Insurance? How Much is Required and How Much Should You Buy?: Motorcycle insurance is required in most states. This guide shows the types available and helps you determine how much coverage you need.
• Compare Motorcycle Insurance Quotes and Companies: Motorcycle insurance is an excellent investment. Comparing quotes from multiple providers can help you find more affordable rates.