When the weather is nice, many people enjoy riding their motorcycles around the Midwest. This includes states such as Indiana, Ohio, Missouri, and Iowa, all of which have scenic landscapes and pleasant summer temperatures. However, riding a motorcycle is inherently more dangerous than driving or riding in a car due to the motorcycle’s lack of roof or sides. While wearing a helmet and sturdy clothing offers some protection, it helps to be aware of the other hazards that bikers face.
Here is how Indiana stacks up against other states in the country when it comes to motorcycle safety.
Fatalities
Indiana ranks about in the middle for motorcycle fatalities as of 2020. Some neighboring states such as Kentucky and Michigan ranked more dangerous than Indiana. However, there is still cause for concern in the Hoosier State because the rate of fatalities rose 19% in the state from the previous year.
Alcohol-related deaths
Again, Indiana ranks around the middle of the 50 states for the percentage of motorcycle fatalities involving alcohol. Indiana saw a rate of 25% for fatalities involving drivers over the legal limit of 0.08% BAC. This was just under the national average of 26%. Regardless of the mode of transportation, alcohol often leads drivers to make bad decisions and overestimate their ability to be in control of a vehicle. Driving under the influence is a major cause of accidents in the United States.
It is important to know where your location ranks in terms of motor vehicle accidents, in order to assess the risk involved and make the best decision for yourself.