State motorcycle deaths approach 20-year high

Motorcycle deaths are approaching a 20-year high in Montana this year. Through the second week of September, 26 motorcycle riders have been killed in different incidents throughout the state. That is a 37 percent increase over the 18 deaths reported during that same period last year, and the highest numbers of deaths since 34 motorcyclists were killed in 1985, the state Department of Transportation's Highway Traffic Safety Office said.

Between 1997 and 2004, motorcycle registrations in Montana nearly doubled, increasing from 17,978 to 34,433. The total number of wrecks involving riders rose from 307 in 1997 to 400 in 2004.

Nationwide, motorcycle rider deaths increased for the seventh year in a row, according to an annual study by the National Traffic Safety Administration.

Although the rising fatality levels are a concern, Highway Patrol officers say they continue to rely on traditional means to try to curb rider deaths, focusing on keeping troopers visible to help reduce speed and recklessness among motorcyclists. The state also helps support a motorcycle safety program to help fight inexperience.

Comments (0)

Post Your Comment:

Name

Email

Title

Comment

smaller | bigger

I have read and agree to the Terms of Usage.

Write the displayed characters

Add Comment