Motorcycle Safety Month May 2018
28
Motorcycle deaths occurred 28 times more frequently than fatalities in other vehicles (based on 2016 data, per mile traveled).
5,286 motorcyclists died in crashes in 2016 - the largest number of motorcycle fatalities since 2008. They accounted for 14% of all motor vehicle crash deaths in 2016.
In 2016, 27% of fatally injured motorcyclists were not properly licensed.
Riders and other motorists can all contribute to safer conditions.
Motorcycle helmets are the best way to protect your head in a crash. Helmets reduce the risk of death by 37%, and reduce the risk of head injury by 67%.
Helmet use is generally lower for motorcycle passengers. Only 44% of motorcycle passengers killed in 2016 were wearing helmets.
Wear a helmet that meets US Department of Transportation (DOT) Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 218. Look for the DOT symbol on the back of the helmet.
Look twice, save a life.
Motorcycles can be difficult to see. Their limited profile and lighting can be missed at first glance. As a driver of another vehicle on the roadway, take an extra second to look again for motorcycles and bicycles.
Weekends, between 6 p.m. and midnight, are the most fatal times for motorcyclists. As a driver, be aware of lighting changes at dusk that can affect your ability to see motorcycles and bicycles.
Drive alert and sober so that you can see and react in time.
