Montgomery, AL – Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is joining the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in recognizing National Bicycle and Motorcycle Safety Month throughout May, encouraging all motorists, bicyclists and motorcyclists to prioritize safety and shared responsibility on Alabama roadways.
According to ALEA, bicycles are legally considered vehicles in Alabama, meaning bicyclists are required to follow the same traffic laws as motorists. The agency also emphasized that drivers should extend the same caution and respect to bicyclists as they would any other vehicle traveling on the roadway.
Motorcycle safety continues to be a growing concern in Alabama. ALEA reported that 2024 saw the highest number of motorcycle fatalities in the past decade, with 125 deaths recorded statewide. That number increased significantly from 92 fatalities in 2023 and 95 in 2022.
While motorcycle-related serious injuries slightly decreased in 2024, with 1,138 reported injuries compared to 1,178 in 2023, officials said the data continues to highlight the risks riders face. Individuals between the ages of 20 and 24 experienced the highest number of motorcycle crashes and injuries in Alabama during 2024.
National statistics from NHTSA show motorcyclists remain especially vulnerable on the road. In 2023, there were 31.39 motorcyclist fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled nationwide, compared to 1.13 fatalities for passenger car occupants.
Under Alabama law, all motorcycle operators and passengers are required to wear a properly fastened, Department of Transportation-approved helmet. ALEA noted that failing to wear a helmet is considered a misdemeanor offense punishable by fines of up to $100 and up to 180 days in jail.
The agency also pointed to research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showing helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 69 percent.
Bicycle crash data also showed ongoing safety concerns across the state. In 2024, Alabama recorded eight cyclist fatalities and 181 injuries, compared to 11 fatalities and 171 injuries in 2023. ALEA stated that 86 percent of bicycle crashes occurred on urban streets, while 14 percent took place on rural roads.
According to the data, individuals ages 41 to 50 experienced the highest number of bicycle-related injuries, while fatalities were most common among those ages 51 to 60.
ALEA is encouraging motorists, bicyclists and motorcyclists to follow several safety recommendations, including obeying traffic laws and speed limits, avoiding impaired driving or riding, remaining alert and distraction-free, yielding to motorcycles at intersections, increasing visibility with reflective gear and always wearing a DOT-approved helmet.
“A few extra seconds of awareness can be the difference between a close call and a tragedy,” said Hal Taylor.
Throughout May, ALEA said it will continue partnering with local and state agencies on education, enforcement and outreach initiatives aimed at reducing crashes and improving roadway safety across Alabama.
For additional information on bicycle and motorcycle safety, visit NHTSA.
