FORT SMITH, Ark. — Just a few days before Fort Smith's Steel Horse Rally begins, the Arkansas State Police (ASP) is reminding both residents and travelers to slow down and give each other some extra space.
In a collaborative statement between ASP and the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the agencies stress that motorcyclists have a higher-than-average rate of fatal crashes, with over 6000 motorcyclists killed in crashes in 2022, representing 15% of total highway fatalities.
ASP reports that in 2022, motorcyclists were 22 times more likely to die in a crash than passengers in a car, and four times more likely to be injured. "Two leading contributors to this reality are speeding and alcohol impairment," said ASP.
35% of fatal motorcycle crashes involved speeding, and bikers between 21 - 24 years old had the highest rate of fatal crashes that involved speeding, at over 50%, according to ASP.
Of the 2,254 motorcycle riders who died in single-vehicle crashes in 2022, 42% had been drinking, ASP said.
ASP Recommends Several Riding Practices
- Observe all traffic laws and don't go above the speed limit
- Drive and ride alcohol and drug-free
- Avoid distractions
- Drivers should yield to motorcyclists, especially at intersections
- Bikers should wear high-visibility gear and helmets
ASP and the NHTSA also recommend that all bikers complete a road safety education and training course, with more information on the Arkansas Highway Safety Office website.
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