Motorcycle accident stats hit ten year low, Government data shows

Motorcycle fatalities have fallen to the lowest number in 10 years outside of lockdown-hit 2020.

Newly published Department for Transport (DfT) statistics show 322 riders lost their lives in collisions involving another vehicle during 2021. The only year with lower numbers is 2020 with 299.

If motorcycle-only accident fatalities are added, where no other vehicle was involved, the number rises to 341, also the lowest recorded number since 2012.

Tony Campbell, CEO of the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA), said: “It is encouraging to see the significant decline in motorcycle related fatalities.”

He said the MCIA believe there are several reasons behind the improvement. They include steps forward with protective kit and electronics which are making bikes both easier and safer to ride. In addition he believes the greater numbers of bikes, e-scooters and bicycles on the roads are causing drivers to be more on the alert.

“Overall, it is positive to see fewer riders killed on motorcycles,” he said. “But at the same time any death in the riding community is one too many. The MCIA will continue to encourage riders through the Elite Rider Initiative to take advantage of Post Test Rider Training and we will continue to push the Government to think differently about the road safety of the biking community.”

The news was also welcomed by the RAC, with spokesman Rod Dennis saying: “A falling number of fatalities is a positive sign – perhaps it’s the case that other road users are getting more used to seeing motorcyclists, and indeed e-scooter riders, on the roads and having to adjust their driving style accordingly.

“What’s more, the fact electric motorcycles and mopeds are currently still eligible for the Government’s Plug-in Vehicle Grant might mean more people consider switching to two-wheeled transport in the coming years.”

Total motorcycle casualties are also the lowest in ten years, ignoring the 2020 lockdown, with 17,971 being recorded. These include every rider casualty regardless of the seriousness.

Although fatal accidents occur more on 500cc machines or larger, those seriously injured are split almost 50/50 between larger-capacity machines and those between 51 and 125cc.

But there is no room for complacency around safety statistics with BikeSafe National Coordinator PC Chris Tall warning of ‘skills fade’ after any break in riding and encouraging everyone to take up the chance of a BikeSafe training session.