Drop in Motorcyclist Deaths Linked to Bad Economy

The good news is that deaths on motorcycles in the U.S. dropped dramatically in 2009.  The bad news is that the economic downturn may be the cause. 

A recent study estimates that motorcycle deaths for the first 9 months of 2009 compared with the same period in 2008 have declined by 16%.  That would constitute about 530 fewer deaths.  The study was undertaken by James Hedlund, a safety consultant and former National Highway Traffic Safety Administration official.  It was sponsored by the Governors Highway Safety Association. 

Hedlund believes that the decline in deaths was caused at least in part to a cutback in leisure rides.  He pointed out that much motorcycle riding is recreational, and is not necessary for transportation.  His study was bolstered by several state safety officials who reported a decline in motorcycle use and sales in their states.