NEW YORK (WBNG) — The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee warns residents that motorcycle crashes are on the rise.
The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, or GTSC, officials said motorcyclists continue to be overrepresented in traffic-related fatalities in New York and nationwide.
According to data from the Institute from Traffic Safety Management and Research, 194 people were killed in motorcycle crashes in New York State in 2023. That accounts for 17.5% of all traffic-related fatalities. Nationally, despite representing only 3.5% of all registered motor vehicles, motorcyclists account for 15% of all traffic-related fatalities, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
In addition, crashes involving motorcycles are on the rise. The total number of crashes statewide in 2023 was 4,658, a nearly 13% increase from 2022.
“As the summer travel season heats up, more motorcyclists will hit the open road to explore New York State and beyond,” said Mark J.F. Schroeder, NYS Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner and Chair of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. “It is so important for everyone on the road to be aware of their surroundings and other drivers or pedestrians. Enjoy your ride, and make sure that everyone else gets the same opportunity to get to their destinations and back home safely.”
The GTSC told drivers to be responsible, give motorcyclists plenty of space, pass with care and look twice.
For motorcycle safety information, visit the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee motorcycle webpage.
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