May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness month and road users are urged to help prevent motorcyclist fatalities by riding and driving safely.
The plea comes from the US Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) after it revealed new data showing there 31.39 motorcycle deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled in 2023, compared to 1.13 passenger car occupant fatalities.
Throughout May, NHTSA will be working to educate the public about the importance of motorcycle safety and sharing the road.
“Far too many motorcyclists are still being killed or injured in traffic crashes across America,” said Peter Simshauser, NHTSA Chief Counsel.
“These tragedies are preventable, and it is essential that both riders and drivers pay close attention to their driving habits and to each other while out on the roads.
“This month, and year-round, we want everyone to remember that motorcyclists’ safety is everyone’s safety.”
In 2023, 6,335 motorcyclists were killed in traffic crashes, representing 15% of all traffic fatalities and an increase of 1.3% compared to 2022.
Among those aged 15 to 20, motorcyclist fatalities increased by 44%, to 505 in 2023 from 350 in 2022.
The NHTSA said vehicle drivers and motorcyclists could help save lives by:
- Observing all traffic laws and obeying the speed limit.
- Driving and riding alcohol- and drug-free.
- Avoiding distractions while driving or riding.
- Yielding to motorcyclists, especially when drivers are turning at intersections.
- Wearing high-visibility protective gear and DOT-compliant motorcycle helmets while riding.
- Completing a motorcycle rider education and training course.
