You feel everything on a motorcycle, the road, the wind, the freedom. Yet, with that freedom comes serious risk. Despite making up only a small share of road users, motorcyclists account for a disproportionately high number of serious injuries and fatalities on Australian roads.
So why aren’t we doing more to protect them?
This guide explores the latest data on motorcycle accidents across Australia, the factors accelerating these risks, and what support is available if you or someone you know has been affected by a crash.
The Alarming Scale of Motorcycle Trauma
Motorcyclists make up just 5% of registered vehicles in Australia, and cover only about 1% of total kilometres travelled. Despite this low representation, they’re still involved in a far greater share of serious crashes and fatalities.
A Concerning Upward Trend
In fact, recent national data reveals a troubling pattern. In the 12 months ending March 2025, motorcyclist fatalities increased by 5.4% to 272. These figures significantly outpace the 1.2% rise in overall road deaths.
This continues a worrying trend. Annual motorcyclist fatalities grew 20% between 2017 and 2023, compared to just 3% growth in overall road fatalities during the same period.
Annual Motorcycle Fatalities (2017-2025)
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Sources: National Road Safety Data Hub
The Stark Reality of Risk
The risks faced by motorcyclists on the road are staggering, including:
- 30 times higher fatality risk per kilometre travelled compared to car occupants.
- 41 times higher serious injury risk compared to car occupants.
- For every motorcyclist fatality, approximately 35 riders are hospitalised with serious injuries.
Massive Injury Burden
While fatalities make headlines, it’s the thousands of non-fatal motorcycle injuries each year that leave lasting impacts. These serious injuries change lives every day, including:
- 17,538 hospitalisations due to motorcycle accidents in 2022-23
- Motorcyclists account for approximately 24-28% of all transport-related hospitalisations
- Among males specifically, motorcyclists represent 32% of transport injury hospitalisations
Source: AIHW Transport Accidents
Geographic Variations: State and Territory Analysis
Motorcycle safety looks very different depending on where you ride in Australia. State by state, the risks shift, shaped by everything from road conditions and traffic volumes to local laws and riding habits.
Fatality Rate Disparities (12 months to March 2025)
For example, the Northern Territory recorded an extremely high road fatality rate of 18.8 deaths per 100,000 population. This is nearly triple that of the next highest jurisdictions. Western Australia and Tasmania followed with identical rates of 6.3 per 100,000. While Queensland (5.1), South Australia (4.8), NSW and Victoria (both 4.0), and the ACT (2.3) had progressively lower rates.
While state-specific motorcycle fatality breakdowns aren't consistently available, concerning trends have been observed:
- Queensland reported 43 motorcyclist fatalities in 2019 but saw a concerning rise to 77 by late 2023
- Victoria recorded 38 motorcyclist deaths in 2018 and 43 in 2021
- Western Australia reported 27 motorcyclist fatalities in 2019
Injury Hotspots
Recent hospital data shows that Queensland and the Northern Territory have some of the highest motorcycle injury rates in the country. In 2022–23, both recorded more than 84 hospitalisations per 100,000 people, well above the national average.
Regional differences in crash locations present an intriguing pattern:
- Approximately two-thirds of motorcycle fatalities occur in regional and remote areas
- Conversely, about two-thirds of hospitalised injuries occur in major cities
This suggests higher-severity crashes (often involving higher speeds) are more prevalent regionally, while higher-frequency but less-lethal crashes dominate urban settings.
Who Is Most at Risk? Rider Demographics
Understanding the demographic profile of motorcyclists involved in crashes is crucial for developing targeted safety interventions.
Age Profile: A Significant Shift
A notable demographic shift has occurred in recent years. While historically younger riders dominated fatality statistics, today, riders aged 40-64 represent the largest group among fatalities:
- 40-64 age group: 93 fatalities in 2023 (37% of total)
- 26-39 age group: 71 fatalities in 2023 (28% of total)
- 17-25 age group: 49 fatalities in 2023 (19% of total)
We’re seeing a clear shift in who is most at risk on two wheels. Back in 2007, the average age of fatally injured motorcyclists was just 36, with around two-thirds under 40. Fast forward to 2016, and that picture had changed. Within this period, less than half of fatalities involved riders under 40, and the average age had climbed to 40.
However, when it comes to serious, non-fatal injuries, a different pattern emerges. In 2022–23, the highest hospitalisation rates were among males aged 25 to 44, at more than 150 per 100,000 people. Younger riders are still ending up in hospital more often, even though fatal crashes now involve older age groups more frequently.
Gender Disparities
Motorcycle casualties in Australia are overwhelmingly male:
- Males account for 95% of all motorcyclist fatalities (241 out of 253 in 2023)
- Males comprised 81% of motorcycle hospitalisations in 2022-23
- The male hospitalisation rate was 5.7 times higher than the female rate
This significant gender imbalance primarily reflects the underlying demographics of the riding population, with males constituting the vast majority of licensed riders.
Experience and Licensing Status
Of course, inexperienced riders are a well-documented risk factor:
- Novice riders face significantly higher crash risk, particularly during the first 1-2 years
- "Returning riders" typically older individuals resuming motorcycling after a significant break also represent a growing safety concern
- Riding without a valid licence is associated with increased crash involvement and severity, with unlicensed riders accounting for approximately one in five motorcycle deaths in some studies
What Causes Motorcycle Crashes?
Motorcycle crashes are rarely caused by just one thing. More often, they’re the result of a mix of factors, rider decisions, other road users, road conditions, and the bike itself all playing a role.
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1. Rider Behaviour
Rider behaviour is frequently identified as a significant contributing factor, particularly in fatal incidents. Some of these dangerous behaviours include:
- Speeding: Travelling at a speed excessive for conditions or exceeding posted limits is a major contributor. Excessive speed contributes to around one-third of all fatal crashes nationally, rising to 29% for fatal motorcycle crashes in Tasmania.
- Alcohol and Drug Impairment: Riding under the influence significantly increases crash risk. A detailed Victorian police investigation found that all riders injured in crashes between midnight and 6 am tested positive for either alcohol or drugs. In Tasmania, alcohol was involved in 5.9% of fatal crashes and drug involvement was implicated in a concerning 21% of fatalities.
- Rider Error and Inattention: Single-vehicle crashes involving loss of control are particularly common in motorcycle incidents. Failure to negotiate bends is a frequent scenario, especially for less experienced riders. Rider inattention was cited as a factor in 15% of all crashes in Tasmania.
2. Other Vehicle Involvement
Crashes involving other motor vehicles are also a major component of the motorcycle trauma problem, such as:
- Failure to See Motorcyclists: A predominant theme in multi-vehicle motorcycle crashes is the failure of other vehicle drivers to yield right-of-way, often occurring at intersections. Studies consistently report that in a majority of these collisions, the driver of the other vehicle is deemed to be at fault.
- Intersection Dangers: Approximately 26% of serious injuries to riders in Victoria resulted from intersection crashes where the other vehicle typically failed to give way.
3. Road Environment Factors
Where a crash happens can make all the difference. Road design, surface quality, lighting, and weather conditions all play a major role in how, and how badly, motorcyclists get hurt.
- Curves are high-risk locations, implicated in over half of single-vehicle crashes in some studies
- Intersections are hotspots for multi-vehicle crashes, particularly those involving failure to yield
- Road surface conditions are critical for motorcycle stability; defects, loose material, and slippery surfaces are frequently cited as contributing factors
- Roadside hazards like poles, trees, and non-motorcycle-friendly barriers contribute significantly to injury severity in run-off-road crashes
4. Vehicle Factors
The type of bike you ride can make a real difference when it comes to crash risk and how serious the outcome might be. Size, speed, and design features all play a part in what happens if things go wrong.
- Motorcycle Type: Sports motorcycles are associated with both higher crash risk and greater likelihood of severe injury outcomes compared to other types
- Engine Capacity: Studies have linked larger engine capacities (750cc+) to increased crash risk
- Safety Technology: Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) are proven to enhance stability during emergency braking, preventing wheel lock-up and reducing crash frequency and severity
Common Injuries Sustained in Motorcycle Accidents
As motorcycles offer so little physical protection, riders often take the full force of a crash. When things go wrong, the injuries are rarely minor, and can be life-changing.
Most Common Injury Types
Some of the most common injuries for motorcyclists include:
- Fractures: These are among the most frequent injuries reported in hospitalised cases, accounting for around 55% of hospitalisations in one Victorian study
- Limb Injuries: The upper and lower limbs are particularly vulnerable, with the knee and lower leg (approximately 25% of cases) and shoulder/upper arm frequently injured
- Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries are a major concern due to their potential for long-term disability and death
- Chest Injuries: Injuries to the chest, including broken ribs and lung contusions, are frequently associated with fatal outcomes
- Spinal Injuries: Damage to the spine can result in paralysis and other severe, permanent disabilities
- Abrasions and Burns: Contact with the road surface during a slide can cause extensive "road rash"
The Critical Role of Protective Gear
Considering the above injuries, that is why Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is so important for mitigating injury severity. Protections include:
- Helmets: Mandatory helmet use in Australia is a cornerstone of motorcycle safety policy. Wearing an approved helmet reduces the risk of head injury by up to 70% and death by nearly 40%.
- Protective Clothing: Purpose-designed motorcycle clothing offers substantial protection against non-fatal injuries. Studies suggest riders wearing protective clothing are less likely to be admitted to hospital after a crash.
Policy Impacts and Technology Advancements
New policies and emerging technologies are already shaping the future of motorcycle safety, sometimes for better, sometimes with mixed results.
Helmet Laws: Proven Effectiveness
Australia's universal mandatory helmet laws have demonstrated clear safety benefits. With helmet compliance rates exceeding 95% in most jurisdictions, these laws have contributed to significant reductions in fatal head injuries.
Graduated Licensing Systems (GLS): Promising Potential
To help manage the higher risks faced by new riders, most Australian states have introduced a Graduated Licensing Scheme (GLS) for motorcyclists. These systems roll out riding privileges in stages, often placing restrictions on bike power, speed, alcohol limits (zero BAC), and carrying passengers.
While some studies show promising safety results, experts suggest the benefits may come just as much from reducing exposure, by delaying full licences, as from the skills riders develop during the restricted phases.
Rider Training: Mixed Evidence
Do traditional rider training programs actually make motorcyclists safer? It’s a question that’s sparked plenty of debate, and so far, the evidence is mixed. Many studies have found little proof that current training models reduce crashes, injuries, or traffic offences.
What’s becoming clearer is that real safety goes beyond learning how to handle a bike. Experts increasingly agree that effective rider education should also build critical skills like hazard perception, risk awareness, and making quick decisions under pressure.
Vehicle Technology: A Promising Frontier
Thankfully, advancements in motorcycle safety technology offer significant potential to reduce crash risk and severity. Some of these improvements include:
- Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS): ABS prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing riders to maintain steering control. Studies show ABS can reduce crash risk by 31-48%, with Australian research estimating a 33% reduction in all injuries and a 39% reduction in severe injuries.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) / Traction Control Systems (TCS): These newer technologies help maintain stability during acceleration or cornering. While less widespread than ABS, their adoption is growing, particularly on high-performance motorcycles.
In fact, ABS has been mandated for all new road motorcycle models (above 125cc) sold in Australia since 2019/2021. This move will significantly accelerate its penetration into the active motorcycle fleet.
Changing Patterns in Motorcycle Usage
Changes in who is riding, why they are riding, and how much they are riding also influence overall exposure and risk patterns:
- Aging Rider Population: Almost half (49%) of NSW riders are aged 40-59, reflecting a significant shift in the demographics of motorcycling
- Recreational Riding: Leisure riding is a primary motivator for a large proportion of riders (82% in a NSW study) and is often associated with older riders and crashes in non-urban locations
- Delivery Economy: An emerging trend is the increased use of motorcycles for commercial purposes, particularly in the food and parcel delivery sector, with potential unique risks related to time pressures and economic incentives
Compensation and Support Options
If you've been injured in a motorcycle accident due to another road user's negligence, several support avenues may be available:
Motor Vehicle Accident Compensation
When a rider is injured in a motor vehicle accident involving their motorcycle, they may be entitled to compensation through:
- Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance claims: Covering medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, and compensation for pain and suffering in serious cases
- Public liability claims: When accidents involve hazards in public spaces
- Common law damages claims: For negligence by other road users
Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) Claims
For motorcyclists who sustain severe injuries preventing them from returning to work, TPD claims through superannuation may provide crucial financial support. Most Australian super funds include TPD coverage by default, though benefit amounts vary significantly.
This can be particularly important for motorcycle accident victims, given the high proportion of serious, life-altering injuries that can impact long-term employment prospects.
Workers' Compensation
If you were riding as part of your job, or even commuting to or from work in some states, you could be entitled to workers’ compensation. This is especially relevant for gig workers like food delivery riders, who spend long hours on the road but often have little protection when things go wrong.
Recommendations for Improving Motorcycle Safety
Based on the statistics and trends, several approaches could enhance motorcycle safety in Australia:
1. Policy & Legislation
- GLS Harmonisation: Work towards greater national consistency in Motorcycle GLS, ensuring alignment with best practice principles
- Technology Mandates: Continue enforcement of ABS mandates and evaluate the potential for mandating other safety technologies
- Delivery Rider Safety: Consider specific regulations for commercial delivery riders addressing issues like training and fatigue management
2. Infrastructure Improvements
- Motorcycle-Friendly Design: Incorporate motorcycle safety into road design standards, including friendly barrier systems and adequate surface friction
- Targeted Route Upgrades: Prioritise safety improvements on routes with high motorcycle crash rates
- Intersection Safety: Implement treatments specifically considering motorcycle visibility
3. Education & Training
- Redesign Training Programs: Focus on evidence-based approaches targeting higher-order skills like hazard perception and risk management
- Targeted Education: Develop specific resources for older and returning riders
- Driver Awareness: Enhance driver education to improve awareness of motorcyclists
4. Protective Gear Promotion
- Beyond Helmets: Implement sustained campaigns promoting full protective clothing
- Enhanced Conspicuity: Encourage the use of high-visibility gear and daytime running lights
Rethinking the Ride
Australia’s motorcycle safety picture is a complex one, with some gains made, but major risks still on the road. While upgrades in bike technology and road infrastructure have helped, motorcyclists remain among our most vulnerable road users.
The data speaks for itself: riders face a much higher risk of serious injury or death compared to other drivers. That’s why ongoing investment in safety initiatives, smarter education, and tougher enforcement is critical.
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, knowing your rights and the support available, whether through injury compensation, superannuation, or workplace cover, can be key to your recovery.
Get Legal Support
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, seeking professional legal advice can make a significant difference to your recovery and compensation outcomes. Understanding your rights and options is crucial, especially when dealing with insurance companies or pursuing TPD claims through superannuation.
For further information or to discuss your specific situation, you can request a free case review or call Smith's Lawyers at 1800 960 482.
Key Resources
- National Road Safety Data Hub - Comprehensive statistics and analysis
- Motorcycle Council of Australia - National advocacy body for motorcyclists
- AIHW Transport Accident Statistics - Updated injury data
- BITRE Road Trauma Australia - Road trauma statistics
