A state-by-state report on motorcycle traffic fatalities in 2010 by the Governors Highway Safety Association was released April 19. The report is based on data from the first nine months of 2010 from all of the states and the District of Columbia.
At first glance, the report seems encouraging and reports a projected 2.4 percent decline in fatal motorcycle accidents in 2010 from the previous year. However, the decline is less encouraging when compared with the 16 percent decline reported in 2009.
Moreover, after analyzing the preliminary data, GHSA concluded that motorcycle fatalities may still be on the rise. This is partly due to the fact that motorcycle fatalities increased as 2010 progressed.
State By State
Approximately half of states reported declines in motorcycle fatalities and half reported no changes or increases. Texas, Oregon and Oklahoma reported significant declines of 1 percent, 2 percent and 30 percent, respectively. But New York, Michigan and Wisconsin reported significant increases in motorcycle deaths.
States that reported an increase in motorcycle fatalities also reported an increase in motorcycle registrations. Officials believe more people are using motorcycles as a way to cut down on high priced fuel.
In Oregon, GHSA officials explained that their success in improving motorcycle safety was due to a strong certification program, a new law cracking down on motorcyclists without proper licenses and a positive relationship with the state's motorcycle clubs who help promote safe, sober riding.
In Maryland, GHSA officials noticed a surge in motorcycle fatalities in their rural counties and are increasing efforts to improve motorcycle safety in rural areas and work zones. The state is also planning to emphasize training and license certification and increase investment into a public education campaign.
Suggestions For Improvements
The GHSA report also included recommendations for states to improve motorcycle safety in the coming year.
Though the report discussed helmet use, it should be noted that helmet laws vary greatly by state. Thirty states do not legally require all riders to wear helmets and four states have no helmet laws.
A clear recommendation in the report is for law enforcement agencies to crack down on impaired driving and speeding by all drivers, including drivers of cars and trucks. Certified safety and operator training should be made more available to all riders.
Follow Us On