Motorcycle riding is popular in Washington, especially during warmer months. While riding can be fun and fuel-efficient, it also comes with serious risks. Each year, hundreds of people are hurt or killed in motorcycle accidents across the state. This post looks at the latest data on motorcycle crashes in Washington and across the U.S., helping riders and drivers understand when and why these accidents happen.
How Do Motorcycle Fatalities Compare to Cars and Trucks?
Motorcycles don’t offer the same protection as cars or trucks. As a result, riders are far more likely to die in crashes.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the fatality rate for motorcyclists in the U.S. is about 70 deaths per 100,000 registered motorcycles. That’s more than 7 times the rate for passenger cars and light trucks, which is closer to 10 and 8 deaths per 100,000, respectively.
In Washington, motorcycles make up just a small portion of vehicles on the road. But in 2016, they accounted for 15% of all traffic fatalities. That year, 81 people died in motorcycle accidents across the state—up from 75 deaths in 2015.
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Most Deadly Motorcycle Crashes Involve Other Vehicles
More than half of all deadly motorcycle crashes involve another vehicle, usually a car or truck. In two-vehicle crashes involving motorcycles:
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72% of the time, the motorcycle is hit in the front.
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Only 7% of the time, the motorcycle is hit from behind.
In many of these crashes, the driver of the other vehicle says they didn’t see the motorcycle. Because motorcycles are smaller and quieter than cars, they can be harder to spot, especially when drivers are distracted or changing lanes quickly.
Speeding Is a Major Factor
Speeding makes any crash more dangerous, and motorcycles are no exception. Nationwide data shows that in about 33% of deadly motorcycle crashes, speeding was involved. That’s much higher than other types of vehicles:
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Passenger cars: 19%
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Light trucks: 15%
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Large trucks: 7%
Higher speeds give riders and drivers less time to react. For motorcycles, which are already less stable than cars, even a small mistake at high speed can lead to a deadly crash.
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When Do Most Motorcycle Fatalities Happen?
In Washington and across the U.S., motorcycle deaths happen more often during warmer months. Most crashes happen between May and September, when more motorcycles are on the road.
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58% of fatal motorcycle crashes happen during this five-month stretch.
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July is the deadliest month for riders.
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January sees the fewest fatal motorcycle crashes.
The warmer weather encourages more riders to head out, and there’s more traffic in general due to summer vacations. This increase in activity leads to a greater chance of accidents.
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Age and Gender Play a Role in Motorcycle Deaths
Motorcycle crashes affect people of all ages, but some age groups are more likely to be involved in deadly accidents. In Washington, the age breakdown for motorcyclist deaths in 2016 was:
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Under 20: 2 deaths
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20–29: 12 deaths
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30–39: 12 deaths
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40–49: 23 deaths
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50–59: 13 deaths
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60 and older: 19 deaths
Middle-aged riders, especially those between 40 and 60 years old, make up a large number of fatal crashes. This may be because many riders in this age group are returning to motorcycles after years off or are newer to riding and may not have updated training.
Gender also plays a big role:
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About 91% of motorcyclist deaths in Washington were male.
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Around 70% of passengers who died were female.
This isn’t surprising, since most riders are men, and women are more often passengers. Still, the high numbers show that safety gear and proper riding habits are important for everyone on a motorcycle—no matter their role.
What These Statistics Mean for Riders in Washington
These numbers may seem scary, but they also offer clues about how to ride safer. Here are some tips based on the trends:
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Be extra alert during summer months when roads are busy.
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Avoid speeding—it’s a leading cause of deadly crashes.
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Watch out for cars pulling out or turning in front of you.
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Wear visible clothing and always use headlights, even during the day.
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Don’t assume other drivers can see you—ride defensively.
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If you’re returning to riding after time off, take a refresher safety course.
Most of all, remember that the road is shared. Whether you’re behind the handlebars or the wheel, staying alert and following the law saves lives.
Call Us If You’ve Been in a Motorcycle Accident
If you or someone you care about has been hurt in a motorcycle crash in Washington, you don’t have to deal with everything on your own. Our attorneys help injured riders get the support they need—from medical care to insurance claims to legal action. We know how these crashes affect families, and we’re here to help.
Call (425) 835-2614 to talk to a motorcycle accident lawyer. The consultation is free, and you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Call or text (425) 835-2614 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form