Per the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, a total of 4,985 motorcyclists were killed in crashes in 2018, more than double the number in 1997.

​

In 2016, motorcyclist deaths reached 5,337, accounting for 14 percent of total highway crash deaths. This is the highest number of motorcyclists killed in one year since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) began collecting fatal motor vehicle crash data in 1975. 

​

Motorcycles are less stable and less visible than cars and often have high performance capabilities. When motorcycles crash, their riders lack the protection of an enclosed vehicle, so they're more likely to be injured or killed. The federal government estimates that per mile traveled in 2017, the number of deaths on motorcycles was nearly 27 times the number in cars.

​

Because serious head injury is common among fatally injured motorcyclists, helmet use is important. Helmets are about 37 percent effective in preventing motorcycle deaths and about 67 percent effective in preventing brain injuries. Yet only 19 states and the District of Columbia mandate helmet use by all riders.