What Percent of Motorcycle Riders Crash?

How Common Are Motorcycle Crashes?

Each year, nearly 90,000 motorcycle crashes are reported across the U.S. Compare that to the roughly 8-9 million motorcycles registered nationwide. That works out to just over 1% of riders in a reported crash each year. About one out of every hundred American motorcyclists will have an accident in a given year.

Keep in mind this is based on reported crashes only. Minor spills or unreported fender-benders aren’t counted. The true number is likely higher.

The Human Cost

In 2019, there were 83,814 motorcyclist injuries and about 5,044 deaths. By 2022, the death toll had risen to 6,225—a record high. Not every crash is fatal, but many result in injury. About 80,000-85,000 motorcyclists are injured in crashes each year. These numbers show that riding carries real risk, even if most riders don’t crash in a given year.

Why Are Deaths Rising?

One factor is that more people are riding. Registered motorcycles grew from about 8.4 million in 2013 to over 9.5 million in 2022. More bikes on the road means more total miles ridden, which can lead to more crashes.

But exposure alone doesn’t explain everything. The risk per mile ridden remains high. In 2019, there were about 426 injuries per 100 million miles traveled by motorcycle. That’s roughly one injury for every 235,000 miles ridden.

The Pandemic Effect

Motorcycle crashes fluctuated during the pandemic. In 2020, overall traffic was lighter, yet motorcycle deaths jumped. Some experts suggest open roads led to higher speeds. Others think more people took up riding during that time. By 2021 and 2022, as traffic returned to normal, deaths continued to climb.

The bottom line: despite better technology and awareness, riding hasn’t become safer in recent years. Vigilance and safety measures are as important as ever.

Risk Factors for Motorcycle Crashes

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Rider Experience

Inexperience is a major risk factor. New riders are far more likely to crash, especially in their first months on the road.

The First Month Is the Most Dangerous

One insurance study found motorcyclists are four times more likely to be in an accident in their first month than after gaining experience. Nearly 25% of collision claims happen within the first 30 days of a new policy. Learning to handle a bike and react to hazards takes time. The first year of riding is often the most dangerous.

Wearing proper gear is crucial. Understanding Georgia’s bicycle helmet laws gives insight into helmet safety standards for two-wheeled vehicles.

Rider Age

Age and experience often go hand in hand. But crash risk exists at both ends of the age spectrum.

Young Riders

Younger riders (teens and 20-somethings) tend to have high crash rates. This is often due to riskier behavior or less training. The thrill-seeking nature of youth can lead to dangerous decisions on the road.

Older Riders

A surprising number of serious crashes involve older riders. Riders over 50 now account for about one-third of motorcycle fatalities. The demographic of riders has shifted upward in age. Older individuals may be more fragile and more likely to suffer severe outcomes in a crash.

Whether you’re a young thrill-seeker or a “born-again” rider returning to motorcycling later in life, understanding your limits matters. Medical costs after a crash can be substantial. It’s important to understand health insurance coverage for motorcycle accidents.

Urban vs. Rural Riding

Urban Roads

About two-thirds of fatal motorcycle crashes happen on urban roads. Urban areas have dense traffic, busy intersections, and more chances for conflicts with other vehicles. Cars making left turns in front of you are a common hazard. These T-bone style accidents are particularly dangerous for motorcyclists.

Rural Roads

Rural riding has its own dangers. Open country roads often mean higher speeds and sharp turns. About 34% of motorcycle fatalities occur on rural roads. In rural areas, crashes are more likely to be single-vehicle accidents. Running off the road is common. These crashes can be deadlier due to high speed or delayed emergency response.

Major non-interstate highways—think curvy backroads or local highways—are the most common setting for fatal crashes. They make up over half of motorcycle deaths. Stay alert whether in city traffic or on empty country lanes.

Time of Day and Week

Weekend Danger

In 2022, 46% of motorcycle fatalities occurred on weekends—Friday night through Sunday. Many people ride for recreation on weekends. There may also be more impaired drivers on the road.

Evening Hours

Crashes are more likely later in the day. The late afternoon and evening hours (roughly 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.) see the highest crash counts. Visibility can be an issue at dusk. Drivers may be tired or distracted.

Nighttime Risk

Nighttime riding further increases risk. Low visibility is part of it. But there’s also a higher likelihood of alcohol impairment. Nearly half of fatal nighttime motorcycle crashes involve a rider over the legal BAC limit.

Exercise extra caution during high-risk times: weekend rides, rush hour traffic, and nighttime outings. If you love a midnight cruise, remember the odds aren’t in your favor. Gear up and stay sharp.

Enjoy the Ride Safely

Motorcycling will always involve some risk. But it’s a risk that can be managed. By respecting the statistics and committing to safe riding practices, you can enjoy the ride and greatly reduce your chances of becoming a crash statistic.

Stay safe out there. Enjoy the freedom of the road with a clear head and cautious eye. Here’s to many miles of happy, crash-free riding. But remember, if you ever need an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer, we’re here to help.

Sources: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), National Safety Council (NSC), Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA).