Critical Emphasis Areas

Adolescent drivers, typically defined as individuals aged 15 to 20, face unique challenges on the road due to inexperience and developmental factors. This demographic is disproportionately represented in motor vehicle crashes, making it essential to understand the statistics and risk factors associated with young drivers both nationally and within New Hampshire.

National Data: 2022

• 2,034 Fatalities - 8.1% of total fatalities
• 180,353 injured
• The leading cause of death for 16–19-year-olds are motor-vehicle crashes
• 75% of teen driver crashes are due to critical errors associated with:
  • Inexperience detecting hazards
  • Speeding
  • Distracted driving
• Young drivers account for $40.7 billion per year in costs from medical expenses and work loss

NH Data: 

• 2024 - 10 Fatalities - 400% increase over 2023
• 2023 - 3 Fatalities
• 2022 - 1 Fatality
• 2021 - 2 Fatalities
• 2020 - 1 Fatality

National Comparison: Despite the recent spike, New Hampshire has been recognized as one of the safest states for teen drivers, with young driver-related fatalities comprising 6.2% of the state's total, among the lowest in the U.S. Top 10 Most Dangerous and Safest States for Youth Drivers

Risk Factors for Adolescent Drivers

• Inexperience: Limited driving experience can impair hazard recognition and decision-making skills.

• Risk-Taking Behavior: Teens are more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as speeding and tailgating.

• Seat Belt Usage: Low seat belt use among teens increases the severity of crash outcomes.

• Alcohol and Substance Use: Underage drinking and drug use impair judgment and reaction times.

• Distracted Driving: Use of mobile devices and other distractions divert attention from the road.

Safety Recommendations

• Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Programs: Implementing GDL systems can provide structured learning experiences for new drivers.

• Parental Involvement: Active supervision and setting driving restrictions can promote safer driving habits.

• Education and Training: Participating in driver education programs enhances skills and awareness.

• Enforcement of Seat Belt Laws: Strict enforcement encourages consistent seat belt use.

• Zero Tolerance for Impaired Driving: Enforcing laws against underage drinking and driving deters substance-impaired driving.

Infractions and Enforcement

60% of teen drivers will have a crash, a ticket, or be arrested in the first year of driving

Driving infractions may result in enforcement penalties such as points off your license and/or suspension/arrest. Below are some common examples of infractions and the penalities:

• Driving while intoxicated:
  • 6 points or immediate suspension/arrest w/ criminal charges
• Disobeying a police officer:
  • 6 points
• Improper passing:
  • 4 points
• Speeding in excess of 25 MPH
  • 4 points
• Speeding in excess of 1-24 MPH
  • 3 points
• Driving with no license to show an officer
  • 2 points

Driving infractions for younger drivers are more severe:

• Under 18 Years Old:
  • Three-month suspension for 6 points in one year
  • Six-month suspension for 12 points in two years
  • One-year suspension for 18 points in three years
• 18-21 Years Old:
  • Three-month suspension for 9 points in one year
  • Six-month suspension for 15 points in two years
  • One-year suspension for 21 points in three years
• Over 21 Years Old:
  • Three-month suspension for 12 points in one year
  • Six-month suspension for 18 points in two years
  • One-year suspension for 24 points in three years

By understanding these statistics and risk factors, targeted interventions can be developed to improve the safety of adolescent drivers both nationally and within New Hampshire.

The crashes linked below all involve drivers under 21 that occurred in Fall 2024. 

• Fatal Crash in Bow, NH - November 21, 2024
• Fatal Crash in New Ipswich, NH - September 21, 2024
• Fatal Crash in Francistown, NH - September 21, 2024
• Fatal Crash in Dublin, NH - September 20, 2024
• Fatal Crash in Exeter, NH - September 13, 2024

Older drivers, typically defined as individuals aged 65 and above, represent a growing segment of the driving population. While driving helps older adults maintain mobility and independence, age-related changes can impact driving abilities, leading to increased risks on the road. Below is an overview of statistics and considerations for older drivers in the United States and New Hampshire.

National Data: 2022

• 8,572 Fatalities - 19% of total fatalities
• 268,622 injured - 11% of total injuries

NH Data: Account for 10% of accidents

• 2024 - 13 Fatalities
• 2023 - 17 Fatalities
• 2022 - 16 Fatalities
• 2021 - 11 Fatalities
• 2020 - 13 Fatalities

Specific Risk Factors for Older Drivers

• Medical Conditions: Age-associated medical conditions such as stroke, glaucoma, and Parkinson's disease can impair driving abilities.

• Medication Use: Use of medications with central nervous system effects, including benzodiazepines, SSRIs, and opioids, can affect driving performance.

• Cognitive and Visual Declines: Deterioration in cognitive functions and visual acuity can hinder an older driver's ability to respond promptly to road situations.

Safety Recommendations for Older Drivers

• Regular Health Check-ups: Routine medical examinations, including vision and hearing tests, can help identify and manage health issues that may affect driving.

• Driver Refresher Courses: Participating in driving courses designed for older adults can update them on current road rules and safe driving practices.

• Vehicle Adjustments: Utilizing adaptive equipment, such as larger mirrors or pedal extenders, can enhance driving comfort and safety.

• Planning and Limiting Driving: Encouraging older drivers to plan routes, avoid high-traffic areas, and limit driving during adverse conditions can reduce risks.

Understanding public transportation or having friends/family available to provide a ride are other solutions to limit or eliminate driving and not restrict the individual's freedom.

See below for more useful information on older drivers:

How to Understand and Influence Older Drivers

What You Can Do

Defensive Driving for Mature Drivers

Top Challenges for Older Drivers

By acknowledging the unique challenges faced by older drivers and implementing appropriate safety measures, it is possible to enhance their safety and that of all road users.

What is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from the road, impairing a driver’s ability to react to hazards. This includes visual (eyes off the road), manual (hands off the wheel), and cognitive (mind off driving) distractions.

Types of Distractions

Visual Distractions (Taking eyes off the road)

• Looking at a GPS or phone screen
• Reading billboards, signs, or other objects
• Turning to look at passengers or objects inside the car

Manual Distractions (Taking hands off the wheel)

• Texting or using a smartphone
• Eating or drinking
• Adjusting the radio, climate controls, or mirrors
• Reaching for objects inside the vehicle

Cognitive Distractions (Taking the mind off driving)

• Engaging in deep conversation with passengers
• Daydreaming or thinking about personal issues
• Driving while fatigued or under emotional distres

The Dangers of Distracted Driving

Increased Risk of Accidents

• According to the NHTSA, sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds—at 55 mph, that's like driving the length of a football field blindfolded.
• Distracted drivers are 3-5 times more likely to be involved in crashes.

Reduced Reaction Time

• Even a momentary distraction delays reaction time, making it harder to brake, swerve, or avoid hazards.

Higher Injury and Fatality Rates

• Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of fatal crashes, especially among teenagers and young adults.
• Nearly 3,000 deaths occur yearly due to distracted driving in the U.S. alone.

Common Causes of Distracted Driving

Mobile Phone Use

• Texting, calling, and browsing are among the most dangerous distractions.
• Even hands-free calling can lead to cognitive distraction.

Passengers & Conversations

• Engaging in deep discussions or arguments can take attention away from driving.
• Young drivers with multiple passengers are at a higher risk of distraction.

In-Car Technologies

• GPS navigation and infotainment systems can be as distracting as phones.
• Adjusting music, climate controls, or car settings while driving reduces focus.

Eating and Drinking

• Spilling hot coffee or dropping food can lead to a sudden loss of control.
• Multi-tasking while driving increases accident risks.

External Distractions

• Looking at accidents (rubbernecking), billboards, or roadside events.
• Unusual weather conditions or animals crossing the road.

How to Prevent Distracted Driving

Limit Phone Use

Put your phone on silent or Do Not Disturb mode while driving.
Use hands-free features only when necessary.
Pull over safely before texting or making a call.

Set Up Before Driving

 Adjust mirrors, seat, climate control, and GPS before starting the trip.
Choose your music or playlist in advance to avoid changing songs while driving.

Educate Passengers

Tell passengers to avoid unnecessary distractions and help with navigation.
If driving with children or pets, secure them properly before starting the car.

Avoid Eating or Drinking

If necessary, take a break at a rest stop instead of eating while driving.
Keep drinks in secure cup holders to prevent spills and distractions.

Stay Focused on the Road

Remind yourself: “My main task is driving.”
If feeling tired or distracted, pull over for a break.
Stay alert to other distracted drivers on the road.

Distracted Driving Laws and Penalties

Many states have strict laws against distracted driving, including:

• Fines and penalties for using a phone while driving.
• License suspension for repeat offenses.
• Higher insurance rates for drivers with distracted driving violations.
• In serious cases, criminal charges if an accident occurs.

Distracted driving is entirely preventable. By staying focused and minimizing distractions, drivers can reduce accidents, protect lives, and make the roads safer for everyone.

What is Impaired Driving?

Impaired driving occurs when a driver operates a vehicle under the influence of substances or conditions that reduce their ability to drive safely. This includes alcohol, drugs (legal or illegal), fatigue, and certain medical conditions.

Types of Impairments:

Alcohol Impairment

Alcohol affects judgment, coordination, reaction time, and vision. Even small amounts can reduce a driver’s ability to react quickly to hazards.

• Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits: In most U.S. states, the legal BAC limit is 0.08% for adults and 0.04% for commercial drivers.
• Effects of Alcohol at Different BAC Levels:
  • 0.02% BAC: Mild relaxation, slight loss of judgment.
  • 0.05% BAC: Reduced coordination, difficulty steering.
  • 0.08% BAC: Impaired reaction time, poor balance, and difficulty detecting danger.
  • 0.15%+ BAC: Severe impairment, loss of motor control, risk of unconsciousness.

Drug Impairment

Drugs—both legal and illegal—can impair cognitive and motor functions.

• Illegal Drugs (Marijuana, Cocaine, Methamphetamine, etc.):
  • Marijuana slows reaction time, impairs judgment, and distorts perception.
  • Stimulants (cocaine, meth) can cause aggressive driving and poor focus.
• Prescription & Over-the-Counter Medications:
  • Some painkillers, sedatives, and antihistamines can cause drowsiness or dizziness.
  • Combining medications with alcohol increases impairment risks.

Fatigue Impairment (Drowsy Driving)

Fatigue impairs alertness, reaction time, and decision-making, similar to alcohol intoxication.

• Being awake for 18+ hours can have the same effect as a 0.05% BAC.
• Drowsy drivers are 3 times more likely to be involved in crashes.
• Shift workers, truck drivers, and those with sleep disorders are at higher risk.

Medical Conditions and Cognitive Impairment

Certain medical conditions can affect a person’s ability to drive safely:

• Diabetes: Risk of sudden low blood sugar leading to confusion or unconsciousness.
• Epilepsy: Seizures can cause sudden loss of control.
• Dementia or Cognitive Decline: Slower reaction times and memory lapses can be dangerous.

The Dangers of Impaired Driving

Increased Risk of Accidents

• Impaired drivers struggle with decision-making, vehicle control, and reaction times.
• Alcohol-related crashes account for nearly 30% of all traffic fatalities in the U.S. each year.
• Drug-impaired drivers are involved in 43% of fatal crashes.

Legal Consequences

Most countries and states have strict impaired driving laws with severe penalties:

• DUI/DWI Charges: Can result in license suspension, hefty fines, and jail time.
• Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs): Require a breathalyzer test before starting a car.
• Higher Insurance Rates: DUI/DWI convictions lead to increased insurance costs.
• Vehicular Manslaughter Charges: If impairment causes a fatal accident, drivers may face years in prison.

Social and Financial Consequences

• Career Impact: A DUI conviction can affect employment, especially for commercial drivers.
• Damage to Reputation: Social stigma and loss of trust from family and friends.
• Financial Burden: DUI fines, attorney fees, and car impound costs can add up to $10,000 or more.

How to Prevent Impaired Driving

Plan Ahead for a Sober Ride

Use a designated driver: Arrange for a friend who won’t drink to drive.
Use public transportation: Taxis, rideshare apps (Uber, Lyft), or buses are safer alternatives.
Stay overnight: If drinking at a friend’s house or event, consider sleeping over.

Recognize When Someone is Impaired

Slurred speech, poor coordination, and delayed reactions are signs of impairment.
If someone is intoxicated, take their keys and help them find a safe ride home.

Avoid Driving Under Medication Influence

Read medication labels for warnings about drowsiness or dizziness.
Consult a doctor about alternative medications that won’t impair driving.

Combat Drowsy Driving

Get 7-9 hours of sleep before long drives.
Take breaks every 2 hours on long trips.
If feeling drowsy, pull over and rest—driving tired is just as dangerous as driving drunk.

Promote Awareness and Education

Support anti-DUI campaigns and community awareness programs.
Encourage workplaces and schools to educate employees and students on safe driving practices.

Impaired Driving Laws and Penalties

Laws vary by country and state, but common penalties include:

• First-time DUI offense:
  • License suspension (6 months to 1 year)
  • Fines ($500–$2,000)
  • Possible jail time (up to 6 months)
• Repeat offenses:
  • Longer license suspension or revocation
  • Mandatory alcohol education programs
  • Ignition interlock device requirement
• Drugged driving penalties: Similar to alcohol-related DUIs, including fines and imprisonment.

Impaired driving is 100% preventable. By making responsible choices and promoting awareness, we can reduce accidents, save lives, and make roads safer for everyone.

What is Speeding?

Speeding refers to operating a vehicle faster than the posted speed limit or too fast for road conditions. It remains a significant factor in traffic accidents, leading to severe injuries and fatalities.

Dangers of Speeding:

• Increased Accident Severity: Higher speeds reduce the time available to react to hazards, leading to more severe collisions.

• Reduced Vehicle Control: Excessive speed diminishes a driver's ability to steer safely around curves or objects in the roadway.

• Extended Stopping Distances: The faster a vehicle travels, the longer it takes to come to a complete stop, increasing the likelihood of crashes.

Speeding Statistics in New Hampshire:

• Traffic Stops: In 2015, New Hampshire State Police conducted 5,018 traffic stops, with 359 drivers exceeding 90 mph and 23 drivers exceeding 100 mph. By 2020, stops remained consistent at 5,025, but violations for speeds over 90 mph rose to 900, and those over 100 mph to 81. In 2023, there were 3,115 stops, with 840 drivers exceeding 90 mph and 89 over 100 mph.

  nhada.com

• Traffic Fatalities: As of September 27, 2024, New Hampshire recorded 100 motor vehicle fatalities, with a notable increase in young driver deaths—the highest in over a decade. Speeding, along with distraction and impairment, were significant contributors to these fatalities.

  businessnhmagazine.com

• High-Speed Violations: Data from March 7, 2023, to March 7, 2024, revealed that 116 drivers were cited for traveling between 100 and 109 mph, while 10 drivers were ticketed for speeds between 110 and 120 mph.

  wmur.com

• Enforcement Initiatives: On December 23, 2024, a traffic enforcement initiative on Interstate 93 North in Salem resulted in 52 motor vehicle violations. Notably, 20 drivers were traveling at speeds of 90 mph or greater, and five drivers exceeded 100 mph.

  nhsp.dos.nh.gov

Consequences of Speeding:

• Legal Penalties: In New Hampshire, driving at excessive speeds can lead to substantial fines. For instance, traveling at speeds of 86 mph or faster can result in a standard fine of $434. Reckless driving, which includes speeds over 100 mph, carries a minimum penalty of a $620 fine and a 60-day license suspension.

  nhsp.dos.nh.gov

• Increased Enforcement: To combat speeding, New Hampshire State Police have intensified enforcement efforts, including the use of aircraft patrols to monitor and deter high-speed driving.

  nhsp.dos.nh.gov

Preventing Speeding:

• Adhere to Speed Limits: Always follow posted speed limits and adjust your speed according to road and weather conditions.
• Plan Ahead: Allow sufficient travel time to avoid the temptation to speed.
• Stay Informed: Be aware of local traffic laws and the consequences of speeding violations.

By understanding the risks and consequences associated with speeding, drivers can make informed decisions that contribute to safer roadways in New Hampshire.

What is a Vulnerable Roadway User?

Vulnerable Roadway Users (VRUs) encompass individuals at heightened risk in traffic environments, primarily due to their lack of protective structures. This group includes:

• Pedestrians: Individuals walking, jogging, or standing near roadways.
• Bicyclists: People traveling on bicycles, sharing roads with motor vehicles.
• Motorcyclists: Riders of motorcycles, who, despite some protective gear, remain more exposed than car occupants.
• Other Non-Motorized Users: Such as skateboarders, rollerbladers, and users of mobility devices.

Significance of Addressing VRU Safety: VRUs are disproportionately represented in traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries due to their minimal protection. Enhancing their safety is crucial for reducing overall traffic casualties and promoting equitable transportation systems.

National VRU Statistics: 

General Trends in VRU Fatalities

• In 2022, VRUs accounted for 20% of all traffic fatalities, with pedestrian and bicyclist deaths continuing to rise.
• Since 2010, pedestrian fatalities have increased by 77%, while overall traffic deaths increased by 30%.
• In 2022, 7,522 pedestrians were killed, marking the highest number in over 40 years.

Pedestrian Fatalities and Injuries

• Pedestrians make up 17% of all traffic deaths.
• On average, a pedestrian is killed every 71 minutes and injured every 9 minutes in the U.S.
• More than 60% of pedestrian fatalities occur in urban areas, at night, and on non-intersection roadways.
• Alcohol involvement (either by the driver or pedestrian) plays a role in nearly 50% of pedestrian fatalities.

Bicyclist Fatalities and Injuries

• In 2022, 966 bicyclists were killed in traffic crashes, a 9% increase from 2021.
• Fatal bicycle crashes most often occur on major roads (except highways), not local streets.
• 25% of bicyclist deaths involved alcohol impairment (driver or cyclist).

VRU Fatalities Over Time

• Pedestrian deaths increased by 77% from 2010 to 2022, compared to a 30% increase in overall traffic fatalities.
• Bicyclist fatalities increased by 44% between 2010 and 2022.
• Motorcyclist fatalities have risen by 20% since 2010, with helmet non-use a key factor.

Speed vs. Pedestrian Survival Rates

• At 20 mph, a pedestrian has a 90% chance of surviving.
• At 30 mph, the survival rate drops to 60%.
• At 40 mph, 20%.chance of surviving

 Locations of VRU Fatalities

• More than 70% of pedestrian deaths occur in urban areas.
• Over 60% occur on roads without sidewalks.
• 25% of bicyclist fatalities occur at intersections.
• 50% of pedestrian fatalities occur at night.

Contributing Factors to VRU Fatalities

Speeding

• Speeding is a key factor in 29% of pedestrian fatalities.
• A pedestrian struck by a car going 30 mph has a 40% chance of dying, while at 40 mph, the risk jumps to 80%.

Distracted Driving

• Distracted drivers were involved in at least 10% of pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities.
• Cell phone use, in particular, has been linked to an increase in VRU deaths.

Road Design and Infrastructure

• Over 60% of pedestrian deaths occur on roads without sidewalks.
• Poorly designed crosswalks and intersections contribute to VRU risk.

Efforts to Improve VRU Safety

Vision Zero & Safe Streets Initiatives

• Over 45 U.S. cities have adopted Vision Zero policies aiming to eliminate traffic deaths.
• Federal funding is increasing for pedestrian and bike-friendly infrastructure, such as protected bike lanes and improved lighting.

Increased Enforcement & Education

• States are implementing stricter speed limits and harsher penalties for reckless driving in high-risk areas.
• Public campaigns encourage helmet use, reflective gear, and sober walking/cycling.

New Hampshire VRU Statistics:

Non-Motorized User Fatalities and Serious Injuries:

• The Federal Highway Administration's 2023 report indicates that the five-year rolling average for non-motorized fatalities and serious injuries in New Hampshire was 38.0, with actual figures reaching 39.2.

  highways.dot.gov

Pedestrian and Bicyclist Fatalities:

• According to the New Hampshire Department of Transportation's Vulnerable Road User Safety Assessment, pedestrian deaths increased from 2019 to 2020, decreased to 2019 levels in 2021, and returned to 2020 numbers in 2022. Bicyclist fatalities remained relatively low, with three or fewer per year during the analysis period.

  NHDOT

Contributing Factors to VRU Incidents:

• Increased Walking and Biking: The COVID-19 pandemic led to a resurgence in walking and biking, which, combined with decreased motor vehicle traffic and higher speeds, may have contributed to more severe VRU crashes.

  NHDOT

• Driver Behavior: Impaired driving, distraction, and speeding are significant contributors to VRU incidents.

VRU fatalities remain a critical issue in the U.S., with pedestrians and bicyclists facing increasing risks due to speeding, poor infrastructure, and distracted driving. However, with better road design, stricter enforcement, and public education, these numbers can be reduced.

Understanding the locations and circumstances of traffic crashes is crucial for implementing effective safety measures. Below is a detailed overview of crash statistics in the United States, with a specific focus on New Hampshire.

United States Crash Statistics

• Overall Fatalities: In 2022, there were 42,514 motor vehicle crash fatalities in the U.S., equating to 12.8 deaths per 100,000 people and 1.33 deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled.

  Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

• State Variations: Fatality rates per 100,000 people varied significantly across states, from 4.8 in the District of Columbia and Rhode Island to 23.9 in Mississippi.

  Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

• Road Type:

  • Interstates and Freeways: Accounted for 15% of crash fatalities.
  • Arterial Roads: Major arterial roads saw 27% of fatalities, and minor arterials accounted for 20%.
  • Collectors and Local Roads: These roads combined accounted for 38% of fatalities.

• Crash Locations:

  • Intersections: About 25% of fatal crashes occurred at or near intersections.
  • Non-Intersections: The majority, approximately 75%, occurred on open road segments away from intersections.

• Time and Day:

  • Nighttime Crashes: Fatal crashes are more likely to occur during nighttime hours.
  • Weekends: Higher incidence of fatal crashes typically occurs on weekends.

New Hampshire Crash Statistics

• Overall Fatalities: In 2024, New Hampshire experienced 135 crash deaths.

• Crash Locations:

  • Urban vs. Rural: Approximately 45% of motor vehicle crash deaths in 2022 occurred in urban areas, while 55% occurred in rural areas.
  • Intersections: Intersections, especially those lacking traffic control devices, are common sites for crashes.

• Contributing Factors:

  • Speeding: A leading cause of fatal crashes in the state.
  • Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drug impairment contribute significantly to crash rates.
  • Distracted Driving: Use of mobile devices and other distractions are notable contributors.

Data Sources and Limitations

• United States: National data is sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

  crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov

• New Hampshire: State-specific data is available through the New Hampshire Office of Highway Safety and local news reports.

  nh.gov

Both nationally and within New Hampshire, traffic crash fatalities remain a significant public safety concern. Understanding the specific locations and contributing factors of these crashes is essential for developing targeted interventions to improve road safety.

Motorcycles, while comprising a small percentage of registered vehicles, are disproportionately represented in traffic fatalities. Understanding these statistics is crucial for implementing effective safety measures.

United States Overview

• Registration and Fatalities: Motorcycles account for approximately 3% of all registered vehicles in the U.S. However, motorcyclists represented 14.6% of all traffic fatalities in 2022.

  Injury Facts

• Fatality Trends: In 2022, there were 6,222 motorcyclist deaths, marking the highest number ever recorded and a 23% increase since 2019.

  Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

• Risk Factors:

  • Helmet Use: The absence of universal helmet laws in some states contributes to higher fatality rates.

    Injury Facts

New Hampshire Specifics

• Fatality Rates: New Hampshire has experienced a significant increase in motorcycle fatalities. In 2024, at least nine motorcyclists lost their lives by mid-year, surpassing the number of deaths at the same time in 2023.

  Tenn and Tenn

• Historical Data: Over the past two decades, New Hampshire averaged 22 motorcyclist deaths per year.

  wmur.com

• Contributing Factors:

  • Helmet Laws: New Hampshire is one of three states without a mandatory helmet law for motorcyclists, which may contribute to higher fatality rates.

    Helping Injured

Safety Recommendations

• Helmet Usage: Wearing a helmet is a proven measure to reduce the severity of injuries and fatalities in motorcycle crashes.

• Rider Training: Participating in certified motorcycle safety courses can enhance riding skills and hazard awareness.

• Awareness Campaigns: Educating both motorcyclists and other road users about sharing the road responsibly can lead to safer driving environments.

By acknowledging these statistics and promoting safety measures, both nationally and within New Hampshire, efforts can be made to reduce motorcycle-related fatalities and injuries.