Deaths of people in cars and trucks, on bicycles or on foot dropped by nearly 2,000 last year, pushing the overall death rate to a historic low. But deaths of motorcyclists surged 6.6 percent, to 5,154; 2007 was the 10th straight year of increase. Experts say the trend is most likely to continue, as high gasoline prices will encourage some travelers to use their bikes more often, getting 50 miles for the $4 gallon of gasoline instead of 20 in their cars.
Interesting! I bet this helps explain why Marine motorcycle deaths have been rising lately. It’s not that Marines are getting more reckless, it’s something happening to the entire country.
I am a female Marine currently in the Individual Ready Reserve. I like to sleep, travel, read, eat, explore, and take photographs. I read lots of news and I like reading about life in other countries. I am easily amused and my dream job is to be snoozing in a warm patch of sunlight, hopefully with a piece of tasty cheese nearby for when I wake up hungry.
Lovely blog! Will check back often!!
I’ve been riding Harleys for over 40 years. It is my observation many novice riders crash within the first 6 to 9 months – especially if they haven’t taken a defensive riding course.
It is difficult for drivers of 4 wheel vehicles to see a rider, which results in crashes. Sometimes the rider contributes to the crash by not riding defensively.
Why has the number of Marine riders increased? I’m betting more Marines are buying scooters when they get back to the world.
Very interesting. I bet nobody will make everyone in the country fill out a packet documenting each motorized vehicle they own and their complete driving history and sign a list of rules that if they break, their medical and/or life insurance doesn’t pay.