Minnesota Hits 20th Motorcycle Death
State Urges Safety Through The 2 Deadliest Months



Motorcycle deaths are down so far this year in Minnesota, however, state officials still urge safety as we head into two of the historically deadliest months for motorcyclist fatalities.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety's preliminary crash reports show Minnesota has hit its 20th death of the year. That figure is more than a third lower than last year at this time, when 32 deaths were reported. In 2009, there were 53 motorcycle fatalities and 72 deaths in 2008.

The DPS said the trend of fewer deaths can be attributed to the age of the riders, rider training, outreach efforts and enforcement effort. They also say the economy has played a role as fewer motorists are purchasing bikes.

Still, DPS officials say August and September are typically the deadliest months for motorcyclists. Riders are urged to take caution, wear helmets and other protective gear and travel at safe speeds. Also, riders are advised to keep an eye out for deer, as 20 percent of riders this year have died in motorcycle-deer collisions.