Motorcyclist Deaths Rise 9% in Britain to 343 in 2024

Motorcyclist fatalities have increased by 9% in Britain in 2024, with 343 riders killed compared to 315 the previous year, making up 21% of the total 1,633 road deaths reported. This rise comes amid a slight overall 1% increase in road deaths, including a 2% increase in pedestrian fatalities. Despite the Department for Transport (DfT) noting that the pattern of motorcyclist fatalities has remained relatively stable over the past decade, road safety experts describe the increase as alarming and call for urgent government action. AA president Edmund King and RAC spokesperson Rod Dennis advocate for stronger penalties for offenses like not wearing seatbelts and drug-driving, as well as protective measures for newly qualified drivers. Road safety charity IAM RoadSmart also emphasizes the need for improved protection of vulnerable road users, particularly motorcyclists. The government’s forthcoming road safety strategy is highly anticipated to address these concerns and reduce fatalities on UK roads.