The Number of North Carolina Motorcycle Deaths is On the Rise
The NC Highway Patrol says that the number of North Carolina motorcycle deaths went up 20% this year. As of last Thursday, 78 people had already died in North Carolina motorcycle crashes this year—compared to the 65 North Carolina motorcyclist fatalities that occurred by around the same time last year. This year’s total so far already exceeds the 79 motorcycle fatalities that occurred in the state in 2009.
Meantime, the S.C. Highway Patrol reports that the number of South Carolina motorcycle deaths has been dropping for the last three years. The latest figures are not available at this time.
According to AAA Carolinas CEO and President David Parsons, motorcyclist inexperience and lack of safety training are just two of the causes of North Carolina motorcycle deaths. Motorcyclists in North Carolina can get a temporary, 18-month permit that can be renewed indefinitely merely by passing a highway sign test, a vision test, and a written motorcycle information test.
Also, a loophole in North Carolina law lets riders drive even if they haven’t undergone safety training. People that have lost their driver’s license after committing driving infractions, such as DWI, can still use a moped or scooter. Parsons notes that mopeds, scooters, and motorcycles are among the most vulnerable motorized vehicles on highways. Also, only some insurance companies require that motorcyclists take driver safety courses.
In South Carolina, motorcyclists can’t get their license unless they’ve passed a skilled road test. Riders in the state, however, are not required to wear a helmet when riding.
While rider inexperience can cause Charlotte, North Carolina motorcycle crashes, there are those accidents that occur because the driver of a motor vehicle or another party was negligent. Even with a helmet and protective clothing motorcyclists are at great risk of injury or death whenever they are involved in a crash—especially if another vehicle was involved. Road burns, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, internal injuries, spinal cord injuries, and death can result.
Motorcycle deaths rise statewide, Charlotte Observer, September 13, 2010
Motorcycle Deaths On The Rise In The State, WCTI12
Related Web Resources:
North Carolina State Motorcycle Laws, American Motorcyclist Association
State Highway Patrol, North Carolina Department of Crime Control and Public Safety
