The publication of the latest road accident statistics by the Department for Transport reveals that the number of motorcycle accidents resulting in KSI (killed or seriously injured) was more-or-less level (up 0.4%) while more minor injuries declined by 9.3% compared to 2023. Overall 15,960 people were injured in motorcycle or scooter accidents in 2024, a 6.0% reduction compared to 2023.

In even better news, that overall reduction has come as the distance ridden nationally has increased, continuing the upward trend seen since the pandemic of 2020. Long term trends are also positive, with two-wheeler traffic rates now back to 2011 levels, but comparative KSI is down by 6.1% and more minor incidents by 20.7%. Over a 20 year period, the number of KSI incidents has fallen by an astounding 36%.

Other findings in the report are that, unsurprisingly, the majority of incidents involve collisions with a car, and that rural roads are by far the most risky for fatalities, whereas motorways are safest. Chief cause of incidents was lack of observation, followed by reckless driving or riding and excessive speed.