How timely, I just finished reading an article in today's Arizona Republic ( Phoenix, AZ ) In which the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that their research has shown that fatal motorcycle crashes have risen 50% since 2001. they still don't know what the causes are, but point out the increase in motorcycle sales, increase in engine displacement, alcohol use and the age average in riders today ( 29.3 to 36.3) Also mentioned is the weakened helmet laws in Arkansas, Texas, Kentucky, Louisiana and Florida, which have had a dramatic increase in fatalities with the exeption of Florida.
Instead of studying the causes, which would cost $2 to $3 million, the agency unveiled a motorcycle safety program. It will study rider training, drunken riding and helmets, their use and how drivers share the road with motorcycles.
I personally believe that training, helmet use and alcohol use are the biggest problems.
I'll explain: I have been working in the industry since the late 80's, and I see coming into our shop the results of lots of accidents, so I personally get to deal with crash victims, police officers and insurance adjusters and we get to ask lots of questions, plus the fact that we know the habits of many of our long time costumers. My conclusion is that lack of training and too powerful a bike in young riders is a big problem, alcohol use is also a major factor and last but not least is lack of helmet use. Now I would be the first to oppose mandatory helmet use but think that riding without one is plain stupidity. Lack of training is plain stupidity, it is there, it saves you the trouble of taking the motor vehicle department test and it will save your live. As far as drinking and driving, stupid is as stupid does. I have also noticed that many crashers don't have a motorcycle endorsment on their licenses, then again pointing at lack of formal training. So lets train and then train some more, take safety schools, go to track days, anything that makes a better rider will keep you alive. By the way, I have been riding since 1965.