07/31/2025
Utah recorded the deadliest year for motorcycle fatalities last year with 53 deaths and 346 serious motorcycle related injuries, since the Utah Department of Public Safety has been keeping track.
With summer heating up, Intermountain Health trauma experts are reminding Utahns about the importance of staying safe when hitting Utah’s roads – whether it be riding on the highway – or driving up the street to the next adventure in the great outdoors.
“Accidents can happen anytime, anywhere, and any place,” said Anthony Bacon, MD, general surgeon at Intermountain Medical Center. “However, there are things we can all do to prevent life-threatening injuries and keep you from becoming a statistic.”
1. Wear a Helmet
“People involved in accidents wearing helmets are far more likely to survive and get back on that motorcycle, bike, scooter, or ATV. Those who don’t wear a helmet end up with a longer recovery time or don’t recover at all,” said Dr. Bacon.
Motorcycle helmets are also estimated to be 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle drivers and 41% effective for motorcycle passengers.
2. Wear Other Safety Gear
“Don’t forget there is more to protective gear than just a helmet,” said Dr. Bacon “Goggles, over-the-ankle boots, gloves, sturdy full-length pants, a long-sleeved shirt and the right footwear are great at taking a little punishment if you take a crash.”
3. Slow Down – Ride Distraction Free
Nearly half of all fatal crashes occur in crashes over 50 mph. Even when there are no cars around, it’s vital to ride safe, especially since over 40% of all fatal motorcycle crashes involve no other motor vehicles.
4. When Driving - Look for Motorcycles
Fatal car and motorcycle crashes typically nearly double during the summer months in Utah.
31% of drivers who hit a motorcycle were turning left. Motorcycles are smaller and difficult to see, especially in your blind spot. Motorcycles may appear farther away than they actually are and it may be difficult to judge their speed. Experts suggest giving riders lots of space, even more space than a regular vehicle.
5. Sign Up for a Safety Class