Recent data released by the Governor's Highway Safety Association indicates that motorcycle deaths are more common than many people are aware of. 31 out of the 50 states in the U.S. had a significant increase in motorcycle fatalities in the year 2015. Across the entire United States, the amount of motorcycle fatalities rose a full 10 percent from 2014. The 2016 statistics will be evaluated in early 2017.

The rise in motorcycle deaths may occur for many different reasons, and it is most likely due to a combination of factors. The weather conditions, the current economic climate, the cost of fuel, and the amount of autos on the road at any given time can all play into the numbers. The unavoidable truth is that motorcycle riders are now at higher risk than they have ever been while on the road. While every state has its share of motorcycle fatalities, the following states have some of the highest death rates in motorcycle accidents.

Florida: #1 in Motorcycle Wreck Fatalities.

The state of Florida had the highest rate of motorcycle fatalities in the entire nation. In the year 2015, 550 people died in motorcycle accidents in the state. This is a dramatic increase over the 2014 Florida motorcycle deaths, which equaled 450. There is likely more than one reason for the high number of motorcycle deaths in Florida, but the warm weather may be a significant factor. The warmer the weather is, the more likely motorcyclists are on the road and therefore vulnerable. With its temperate climate, the Florida riding season lasts nearly year round.

Michigan: #10 in Motorcycle Crash Fatalities

The state of Michigan ranked tenth on the list of states with the most motorcycle fatalities in 2015. The total number of deaths was 138, a marked increase over the 112 deaths recorded in 2014 -- and a very large number for a small state that has a shorter riding season. This 23 percent increase suggests that Michigan is now more dangerous than ever for motorcycle riders.

Texas: #3 in Motorcycle Accident Fatalities

The state of Texas had the third highest rate of motorcycle deaths in the nation for 2015. 455 people lost their lives in motorcycle accidents in Texas, a small rise from the 451 deaths that occurred in 2014. The high fatality level in Texas may occur for one of the same reasons that the Florida numbers are high: The weather is warm for much of the year, which extends the riding season significantly.

North Carolina: #4 in Motorcycle Accident Fatalities

The state of North Carolina had the fourth highest rate of motorcycle fatalities in the Unites States in 2015. 185 people died in North Carolina motorcycle accidents in 2015, which is a two percent increase over the 2014 deaths. While the number of deaths is considerably smaller than that of states like Florida, California, and Texas, North Carolina is also a far smaller state with a smaller population overall.

Motorcycling can be a dangerous mode of travel, so bikers need to practice defensive riding when they hit the road. Motorcycle riders should always be aware of others on the road. When entering roads, making turns, or taking exits, extra care should be taken. Riders should be particularly mindful of motorcycle blind spots, as well as the blind spots that cars typically have.

Careful observation of road rules, defensive riding, and vehicle insurance can all be efficient safety measures, but there may be times when those things just aren't enough. If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, or if you lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, give us a call to find out how we can help you recover damages today.