Number of motorcyclist fatalities holds steady in 2011: report

Washington – Motorcyclist fatalities totaled approximately 4,500 in 2011 – nearly the same number reported in 2010 – according to a report (.pdf file) released May 22 by the Governors Highway Safety Association.

Researchers compared preliminary roadway fatality data from each state and the District of Columbia for the first nine months of 2010 and 2011 and found that motorcyclist fatalities decreased in 23 states, with notable declines in three states – 37 percent in Connecticut, 16 percent in New York and 21 percent in North Carolina. However, 26 states reported an increase in fatalities. The decreases were attributed to a combination of countermeasures that included enforcement, education and engineering.

Motorcycle fatalities remain one of the few areas in highway safety where progress is not being made, according to GHSA. Researchers recommend states address alcohol use, speeding and helmet use among motorcyclists, and offer more training programs.