Probability of Dying in a Motorcycle Crash
1 in 110
Lifetime probability in US
The lifetime odds of dying in a motorcycle crash are about 1 in 110, making motorcyclists 29 times more likely to die per mile than car occupants.
Motorcycle riding carries substantially higher fatality risk than driving a car. The National Safety Council reports lifetime odds of dying in a motorcycle crash at approximately 1 in 110. Per vehicle mile traveled, motorcyclists are about 29 times more likely to die in a crash than passenger car occupants, according to NHTSA data.
In 2022, approximately 6,218 motorcyclists were killed in crashes. Major risk factors include riding without a helmet, alcohol impairment, speeding, lack of proper training and licensing, and riding on rural roads. Helmet use is the single most effective safety measure, reducing the risk of death by about 37% and the risk of head injury by about 69%.
To reduce risk, riders should always wear a DOT-compliant helmet, complete a motorcycle safety course, never ride impaired, wear appropriate protective gear (jacket, gloves, boots), maintain their motorcycle properly, and ride defensively. Many fatal motorcycle crashes involve a car or truck driver who failed to yield to the motorcycle.
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