News Summary
Louisiana has been ranked as the second most dangerous state for motorcyclists in the U.S., following Texas. A recent study indicates a worrying 26% increase in motorcycle fatalities, reaching the highest recorded deaths in history. Road conditions and safety measures are highlighted as major issues contributing to this concerning trend, with legislative actions taken to enhance traffic safety in response to the alarming statistics.
Louisiana Ranks Second in Motorcycle Fatalities Nationwide, Sparking Safety Concerns Amid Surge in Deaths
Louisiana is now the second most dangerous state for motorcyclists in the United States, with only Texas ranking higher, according to a national study. The study reveals a disturbing trend in motorcycle fatalities, with deaths soaring to over 6,200 in 2020—a staggering 26% increase from approximately 4,900 in 2019. This marks the highest number of motorcycle deaths recorded in U.S. history, prompting concerns regarding rider safety across the country.
The Nicolet Law study assessed motorcyclist fatalities based on the metric of deaths per 100,000 motorcycles, taking into account several factors, including speeding, impairment, rainfall, and road quality. Louisiana’s motorcyclist risk score stands at 77, with an alarming average of 109 rider deaths per 100,000 motorcycles. Remarkably, around 121 riders are involved in fatal collisions within the state.
High Fatality Rates and Road Conditions
Texas leads the nation with a risk score of 99, noting 133 rider deaths per 100,000 motorcycles and 148 riders involved in fatal crashes. Southern states account for eight of the ten deadliest states for motorcyclists, highlighting a regional trend in motorcycle-related fatalities. Louisiana ranks particularly poorly in terms of road safety, possessing the worst road roughness score at 17.8 and experiencing nearly 59 inches of average precipitation annually. These conditions adversely affect road safety and increase the likelihood of accidents.
Infrastructure issues in Louisiana contribute significantly to the risk faced by motorcyclists. Common problems such as uneven surfaces, potholes, and drainage deficiencies are exacerbated by heavy rainfall, often leading to hazardous riding conditions. The impact of traffic crashes in Louisiana is severe, estimated to result in combined economic and quality-of-life costs of approximately $33.4 billion in 2024.
Government Initiatives for Road Safety
In response to the escalating death toll and dangerous road conditions, Louisiana’s lawmakers have approved substantial funding aimed at enhancing traffic safety. A budget of $1.11 billion has been granted for 343 highway projects during the 2025–26 fiscal year. In addition, major investments amounting to $709 million are allocated for roads and bridges improvements, which will be bolstered by federal funding intended for critical projects, such as the $2.1 billion I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge replacement.
Recent Incidents Raise Alarm
The urgency for improved safety is highlighted by recent motorcycle crashes in Louisiana. In Metairie, a tragic incident resulted in a motorcyclist’s death after colliding with a tractor trailer. Additionally, a high-speed driver caused a fatal crash involving stopped motorcycles, claiming the lives of two riders. These incidents evoke increasing concern regarding both motorcycle and bicycle safety within the state.
Further illustrating the risks faced by those on two wheels, the death of Michael Milam—a newcomer to New Orleans—occurred just weeks after relocating to the city. He was killed in a bicycle crash, accentuating the ongoing challenges related to cyclist safety in the region. Advocacy groups continue to stress the necessity for safer roadways and improved infrastructure following several fatalities involving cyclists and motorcyclists alike.
The growing number of fatalities among motorcyclists in Louisiana underscores an urgent need for attention to road safety measures and infrastructure improvements. As more riders take to the roads, the call for action to protect motorcyclists becomes increasingly crucial.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Louisiana Sees Lowest Traffic Fatalities in Five Years
Tragic Collision on Almonaster Avenue Claims Two Lives
Major Multi-Vehicle Crash Causes Traffic Chaos on I-10
Additional Resources
- WDSU: Metairie Stolen Motorcycle Fatal Crash
- Wikipedia: Motorcycle Safety
- FOX 8: Driver Plows into Motorcycle Riders
- Google Search: Motorcycle Safety Louisiana
- WGNO: Motorcyclist Killed in New Orleans East Crash
- Google Scholar: Motorcycle Fatalities Louisiana
- NOLA: Michael Milam Killed – St. Claude Cyclist
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Motorcycle Safety
- New Orleans City Business: Louisiana Traffic Deaths 2024
- Google News: Motorcycle Accidents Louisiana
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
