OLYMPIA, Wash. — A Washington State Patrol (WSP) press release dated April 13, 2026, said warmer weather and rising gas prices could bring more motorcycles onto Washington roads, prompting the agency to begin its Motorcycle Safety Awareness campaign early.
WSP stated motorcycles can present a higher level of risk for riders who do not have the training, skills and equipment needed to ride safely.
National statistics cited in the release said the fatality rate for motorcyclists was up to 27 times higher than for passenger car occupants. The release also said motorcyclists accounted for 15% of all vehicle deaths nationwide while motorcycles made up 3.5% of registered vehicles.
WSP also reported speed was a factor in 33% of motorcycle fatalities in recent years, compared with 22% of passenger car fatalities. It also said riders ages 21 to 24 accounted for as much as 49% of speed-related fatalities nationwide.
WSP said motorcycle safety was the responsibility of drivers, riders and families. The agency told drivers to check blind spots and give motorcyclists space, while riders were advised to avoid excessive speed and erratic maneuvers and stay visible in traffic.
The agency also advised riders to follow traffic laws, adjust speed for road and traffic conditions, wear a DOT-compliant helmet and protective gear, complete rider safety courses, maintain a valid motorcycle endorsement and never ride impaired.
WSP Chief John R. Batiste addressed the agency’s safety concerns in the release.
“Motorcycles lack some of the structural safety engineered into modern automobiles and depend more acutely on the rider’s skill, reflexes and attention level,” Batiste said. “The Washington State Patrol urges those thinking about starting to ride to get all the training you can, invest in all appropriate safety gear and to always be keenly aware of your speed and surrounding traffic. We want everyone to get home safely, every time.”
