Motorcycle Fatalities in Arizona: What the Data Shows

Arizona consistently ranks among the most dangerous states in the country for motorcyclists. Year-round riding weather, wide-open highways, and a culture of speed create conditions that put riders at extreme risk.

Arizona Motorcycle Fatality Trends

Our analysis of NHTSA FARS data shows that motorcycle fatalities in Arizona have trended sharply upward over the past decade, peaking in 2023. Maricopa County accounts for the majority of motorcycle deaths statewide, followed by Pima County (Tucson).

The most dangerous months for riders are March through October — the period when riding is most popular and traffic is heaviest. But unlike car accidents, which peak on Friday afternoons, motorcycle fatalities spike on Saturday and Sunday when recreational riding increases.

Where Motorcycle Crashes Happen

Intersections are the #1 killer. Left-turn accidents — where a car turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle — account for a disproportionate share of motorcycle fatalities. Drivers simply don’t see riders.

I-10 and I-17 see motorcycle fatalities at high rates, particularly on weekend mornings when riders head north on I-17 toward Sedona and Prescott.

Rural highways including the Apache Trail, Route 87 (Beeline Highway), and Route 89A through Sedona are popular riding routes with dangerous curves, limited shoulders, and speed differentials between motorcycles and slower traffic.

Why Motorcycle Cases Are Different

Motorcycle accident claims differ from car accident claims in critical ways. Injuries are almost always more severe — riders don’t have the protection of a steel frame, airbags, or seatbelts. Road rash, broken bones, spinal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries are common even in relatively low-speed crashes.

Insurance companies also carry a bias against riders. They’ll argue the motorcyclist was speeding, lane-splitting (illegal in Arizona), or inherently reckless simply for riding a motorcycle. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney knows how to combat this bias.

Helmet Law and Comparative Fault

Arizona does not require adult riders to wear helmets. If you weren’t wearing a helmet and sustained a head injury, the insurance company will argue comparative fault. But under Arizona’s pure comparative fault system, you can still recover even if the lack of helmet is deemed partially responsible for your injuries.

Protect Yourself — and Know Your Rights

Wear a helmet regardless of the law. Get a dashcam mounted to your bike. Carry UIM coverage — many drivers who hit motorcyclists carry only the $25,000 minimum.

If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, call (833) DTF-IGHT. Bob Mills is an avid motorcycle enthusiast himself and understands the unique challenges riders face.