An investigative study reports that 29,135 individuals died in traffic crashes across the United States during the first nine months of 2024. This total reflects a 4.4 percent decrease from the same period in 2023, continuing a trend of declining traffic fatalities over ten consecutive quarters. Motorcycle fatalities account for 15 percent of all traffic deaths, while motorcycles represent only 3 percent of registered vehicles. Motorcycle deaths have decreased in Florida, California, Texas, Arizona, and Georgia between 2022 and 2024, though they remain elevated relative to overall traffic fatality trends.
A study by the law offices of Jones & Swanson in Marietta, Georgia, analyzes state-specific data on helmet laws, DUI enforcement, and road safety policies. The analysis compares motorcycle fatalities across five states—Florida, California, Texas, Arizona, and Georgia—from 2022 to 2024, using data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS). Additional sources include the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), and state Departments of Transportation (DOT).
In Florida, motorcycle fatalities were 574 in 2022, 560 in 2023, and 550 in the first nine months of 2024, a 4.2 percent decrease over the period. The state’s partial helmet law applies to riders under 21 or those without insurance; DUI enforcement is rated weak. In 2024, 1,024 DUI-related motorcycle crashes were recorded. The intersection of State Road 82 and Daniels Parkway in Fort Myers is identified as a persistent high-risk site.
California reported 539 motorcycle deaths in 2022, 525 in 2023, and 510 in early 2024, a 5.4 percent reduction. The state mandates helmets for all riders and enforces strict DUI policies. The intersection of Interstate 5 and State Route 99 is noted as a significant crash location, though the specific junction—Sacramento County or Kern County—is not identified in the presented study.
Texas recorded 482 motorcycle fatalities in 2022, 475 in 2023, and 460 in early 2024, a 4.5 percent decrease. Its partial helmet law covers riders under 21 or in training courses, with DUI enforcement classified as moderate. In 2024, 39 percent of motorcycle fatalities involved unhelmeted riders. The Interstate 10 and State Highway 71 intersections near Columbus, between Houston and San Antonio, are designated as a high-risk area.
Arizona documented 232 motorcycle deaths in 2022, 228 in 2023, and 220 in early 2024, a 5.2 percent decline. The state’s partial helmet law applies to riders under 18, while DUI enforcement is strict. No specific high-risk intersection was identified.
Georgia reported 221 motorcycle fatalities in 2022, 215 in 2023, and 210 in early 2024, a 5.0 percent reduction. The state requires helmets for all riders and maintains moderate DUI enforcement. No high-risk intersection was specified.
Motorcycle riders are 28 times more likely to die in crashes than passenger vehicle occupants. Helmet use is linked to a 37 percent reduction in fatal injuries. DUI-related motorcycle crashes contribute significantly to fatalities, particularly in states with weaker enforcement, such as Florida and Texas.
The methodology combines FARS fatality data, IIHS and GHSA helmet law assessments, MADD and DOT DUI enforcement evaluations, and state crash reports for high-risk intersections.
An individual speaking on behalf of Jones & Swanson stated, “While overall traffic deaths decline, motorcycle fatalities remain elevated due to legislative and infrastructure shortcomings. Partial helmet laws, inconsistent DUI enforcement, and unaddressed crash sites contribute to preventable rider deaths.”
