Share the Road: Motorist Awareness of Motorcycles

Jun 24th, 2020

ProjectNews

 

According to NHTSA, there were 5,172 motorcyclists killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2017 – a decrease of 3% from the 5,337 motorcyclists killed in 2016. Of the 5,172 motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes, 94% (4,885) were riders and 6% (287) were passengers.

 

Motorcyclists are significantly over-represented in traffic crashes and fatalities. In 2017, motorcycles made up 3% of all registered vehicles in the United States in 2017 and accounted for only 0.6% of all vehicle miles traveled. This makes the fatality rate for motorcyclists 6 times higher than that of a passenger car occupant.

 

With reduced traffic lanes during construction, being aware of vehicles around you is vital. Even the smallest momentary lapse in a vehicle driver’s awareness can result in the death of an unseen motorcyclist.