Motorcycle Deaths Up 200 Percent

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Motorcycle Deaths Up 200 Percent

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Posted: 7:59 PM Apr 21, 2008
Last Updated: 8:10 PM Apr 21, 2008

9 comments

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The number of people killed in motorcycle accidents in North Carolina has tripled in the last decade.

The state Division of Motor Vehicles released figures Monday
that show a 200 percent increase in deaths since 1997. Nationally,
the number of deaths increased 140 percent.

A record 183 people died in motorcycle accidents statewide last
year, compared to 61 in 1997. Officials blame the increase in part
on milder weather that extends the riding season.

Motorcycles represent less than 2 percent of registered vehicles
in North Carolina but account for almost 12 percent of traffic
fatalities. Statewide, the number of motorcycle registrations
increased 17 percent.

A state law that took effect this year requires motorcycle
riders to wear helmets that meet federal safety standards.

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Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.

Posted by: Watcher Location: Vanceboro on Apr 22, 2008 at 12:19 PM
I believe the increase is due to an increase in motorcycles on the road. I have several co-workers who have bought motor cycles to cut on the cost of gas, traveling back and forth to work.

Posted by: J Location: Gville on Apr 22, 2008 at 10:12 AM
If people would PAY ATTENTION to those who ride the bikes, there wouldnt be this big of a problem. ifyou cant drive while you talk, shut your mouth, keep both hands on the wheel,or get out of the cars. Motorcycle riders shouldnt have to be worried about being hit by an ignorant vehicle driver.

Posted by: moreinfoneeded Location: Ayden on Apr 22, 2008 at 06:24 AM
Please report all the numbers. How many of these accidents were caused by drivers of cars and trucks ? I ride a lot and I am safe, but idiots with cell phones, etc never pay attention. It's reasonable for accidents to go up when the activity increases. More bikes, more accidents. At posted speed limits its very unlikely that a REQUIRED helmet will save you.

Posted by: ??? Location: WIlliamston on Apr 22, 2008 at 06:23 AM
Have you people noticed the way they ride now. Not all, but most act like they are the only ones on the road. THey seem to try to go as fast as they can.

Posted by: Mike Location: Edenton on Apr 22, 2008 at 05:42 AM
Amen to personal freedom, Mike of Pantego. I have been riding since 1967 and have "chosen" to wear an appropriate helmet. The milder weather and 17% ridership increase is not to blame. Actually I question the 17%, it's more like 100% . The big increase in fatalities I believe to be due to a big increase in speed and careless operation by a certain segment of the riders. I've been cruisin' and had them pass me on one wheel. Use your imagination! Live to ride, ride to live! BIKERS RULE!!!!!

Posted by: Bikerwolf62 Location: Eastern NC on Apr 22, 2008 at 04:57 AM
I agree with Mike. What the hell happened to our rights? A big part of the problem with Bikers ( or to be politically correct " Motorcyclists" )rise in deaths are the speed demons behind the wheels of autombiles or the " I didn't see it" crowd. Leave you're makeup in your purse, your cell phone in it's case, and stop eating while driving, and I'll bet the motorcycle death toll drops. Sure there are deaths where the biker is at fault, butI doubt that is the majority of the time. As far as the new helmet law, I wish the legislation had them stuck where the sun don't shine. I'm a grown man and can't even make decisions for myself, about myself anymore without getting fined. I love my country but I despise politcians and their "I'll do whats best for you BS."

Posted by: also mike Location: nc on Apr 21, 2008 at 11:15 PM
you're exactly right mike. liberals love taking your money and telling you what's good for you. also, have you noticed the economy since the democrats got control? guns and talk radio are next on their agenda. see what your tax dollars pay for at witn/carolina scanner/news from the triangle abc11/ p o faces judge. freedom is an illusion for the taxpayers, dirtbags have rights.

Posted by: joe stroud on Apr 21, 2008 at 10:56 PM
DITTOS FOR MIKE IN PANTEGO. DON'T LET YOUR FREEDOMS BE TAKEN AWAY. VOTE LIBERTARIAN.

Editor's Note: Please type all posts in upper and lower case.

Posted by: Mike Location: Pantego on Apr 21, 2008 at 08:42 PM
The reason isnt weather its the number of motorcycles on the road now.Im sick of one sided surveyes that speculate instead of presenting facts.As for the new helmet law.It is ludicrious.It is just another way for our loving and caring goverment to take even more of our hard earned money.Same goes for seat belts.When did we as americians give up our right for choice.I forgot we can choose but if we make a differnt choice than the government we get fined or jailed.Im not saying we dont need law and order,I juse feel that if the choices we make do not affect others saftey than we shouldnt be penalized.If i choose not to wear a seatbelt or helmet,and i get in a wreck that choice does not affect anybody but myself.Freedom is becoming an illusion in our country.