Only Texas Is More Dangerous for Motorcyclists Than Missouri

If you prefer to do your travel by two wheels instead of four, you should know that Missouri is suddenly the second most dangerous state for motorcyclists based on new data that has just been shared.

There is a new study that has just been shared by Stacker which reveals the increasing danger for motorcyclists on Missouri roads. It's based on Insurance Institute for Highway Safety data which shows that over the past 20 years, Missouri has risen in the rankings of states with the most motorcycle fatalities now only trailing Texas for the most deaths for every 10,000 riders.

Some are blaming this increase in Missouri motorcycle fatalities on helmet laws that now allow those 26 and over to ride without a helmet as long as they have health/medical insurance proof. That applies to both riders and passengers in Missouri. The National Safety Council claims helmets reduce fatalities in motorcycle accidents by a staggering 37%.

The road conditions for some Missouri highways also have to be at least partially responsible. KCTV reported not that long ago that rural roads in Missouri were among the worst in the nation for condition. To be fair, Missouri highways are rated highly overall being named as the 9th best in America.

Ultimately, this comes down to personal responsibility. I have many friends with motorcycles that enjoy the freedom their two wheels provide and some don't enjoy wearing a helmet. It's their choice, but it's sad to see so many who are losing their lives way too soon as a result.