Motorcycle season is beginning in the US. The North American season tends to run from April to October. While warmer temperatures and the lack of wintry weather make it easier to stay upright on the pavement, though, riders should consider the risks involved before they get their bikes back out on the road.
If you’re a motorcyclist and you’re getting ready for the 2026 season, it’s important to consider the dangers involved. It’s easy to let experience make you complacent, but a false sense of security only increases risk. Here are some important statistics and tips riders can use to mentally brush up and make sure they’re making smart decisions when they pull out for the first time this year.
You’re Genuinely At Risk — 28 Times the Risk
According to statistics compiled for the 2023 season, motorcyclists made up 15% of all traffic fatalities in 2023. That’s 6,335 deaths. The way the number is described is by the number of deaths per 100 million miles traveled. This is because the typical car occupancy death rate in the US is just about one (1.13) death per 100 million miles. For motorcyclists, that rate is much higher. How much? In 2023, the fatality rate per mile traveled for motorcyclists was nearly 28 times higher than for passenger vehicle occupants.
According to an analysis of U.S. crash data around motorcycle accidents in the US, in single-vehicle motorcycle crashes, the motorcycle driver is responsible roughly two-thirds (66-67%) of the time. However, when multiple vehicles are involved, the statistic flips. Roughly 60% of the time, when a motorcyclist and another vehicle are in an accident, it’s the other driver’s fault.
The California attorneys point out, “The split tells an interesting story: riders tend to hurt themselves through skill errors, but other drivers hurt riders through negligence.” The experts at DK Law add the warning, “In both scenarios, it’s the rider who tends to suffer more serious injuries.” Since motorcyclists are the most apt to be killed or severely injured in an accident, what can they do right now, as motorcycle season is kicking off, to protect themselves while they’re on the road?
What Can Motorcyclists Do to Reduce Risk?
There are several steps that motorcyclists can take to help reduce the likelihood of hurting themselves while on the road. Here are some of the top statistically focused areas that can reduce the risks on the road.
Don’t Drink Before You Drive
41% of motorcycle riders killed in the latest data were alcohol-impaired at the time of a crash. Alcohol takes hours to metabolize, and it is typically recommended to wait until it is completely gone from your system before traveling.
That’s for driving a car, where the risks are much lower. Motorcycles offer less physical protection than passenger vehicles. If you’re going to drink, make arrangements for a rideshare, a pick up from a friend, or a ride home from a designated driver.
If You’re Young, Be Extra Aware
Young riders have seen a notable increase in fatalities in recent years. Data found that fatalities jumped from 350 to 505 for riders between the ages of 15 and 20 years old in a single year. That’s a 44% increase in twelve months.
While younger riders don’t have to stop riding altogether to avoid the dangers, it’s worth paying attention to the statistics. Young riders are generally inexperienced, and that can lead to dangerous situations. While that is bad enough in a car, a motorcycle provides less margin for error. Younger riders should use the data as a warning to pay close attention every time they’re on the road.
Wear Your Helmet
Wearing a helmet remains one of the most effective ways a rider can protect their life and health while riding. When a helmet is on, the risk of death drops by as much as 60% — and the odds of getting a serious head injury go down by 88%.
Fortunately, motorcyclists have caught onto this fact. In 2008, it was estimated that about 50% of riders donned a helmet before hitting the pavement. In 2023, that number jumped to 73.8%. There is a substantial difference in fatality rates between helmeted and unhelmeted riders. 51% of those killed in 2023 in states without universal helmet laws were not wearing a helmet. In comparison, in states that require helmets at all times, that number dropped to 10%. Still, about one in four riders does not wear a helmet.
Making Smart Decisions This Motorcycle Season
There are many other ways riders can be smart on the road this year. For instance, speed remains a major contributor to fatal crashes. However, drinking, helmets and age awareness continue to be some of the leading risk factors that influence crash risk and injury severity. Riders can reduce risk by planning ahead and consistently following safety practices.
