Highways Pose Greatest Risks for Motorcyclists

Data reveals most dangerous routes for riders, highlighting need for safety awareness and infrastructure improvements.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 11:39pm

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A new analysis of federal crash data shows that while interstates and freeways are often perceived as the riskiest roads for motorcyclists, the majority of fatal crashes actually occur on non-interstate major roads. However, several high-profile highway corridors like I-80, I-75, and U.S.-50 consistently rank among the most dangerous routes for riders due to factors like high speeds, traffic mix, limited escape space, and rapidly changing weather conditions.

Why it matters

Understanding where the greatest risks are for motorcyclists is crucial for improving rider safety, informing infrastructure investments, and promoting awareness campaigns. Identifying these high-risk highway corridors can help target safety initiatives and policy changes to protect one of the most vulnerable groups on the road.

The details

Federal data shows that 56% of motorcycle fatalities occur on non-interstate major roads, while only about 12% happen on interstates and freeways. However, several major highway corridors stand out as particularly dangerous, including I-80 in California, I-75 in Georgia, U.S.-50 in Nevada/California, I-70 from Colorado to Missouri, and U.S.-301 in Florida/Maryland. These routes feature a mix of high speeds, heavy truck traffic, rapidly changing terrain and weather, limited shoulders, and merging zones that create conflicts between vehicles and motorcycles.

  • In 2023, 6,335 motorcyclists were killed in traffic crashes, the highest number recorded since federal tracking began in 1975.

The players

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

The federal agency responsible for tracking and reporting on traffic safety data, including motorcycle fatalities.

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

A nonprofit research organization that analyzes data on highway safety and provides insights on dangerous road conditions.

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The takeaway

This analysis highlights the need for a multi-pronged approach to improving motorcycle safety, including targeted infrastructure investments, rider education, and policies to address factors like speeding and distracted driving that contribute to the high fatality rates on America's most dangerous highways.