According to a report from the Governors Highway Safety Association motorcycle deaths declined 16% in 2009.  This means that 847 riders didn’t die on the roads last year.  There is no ready explanation as to why there was such a welcome drop.  A Denver Post article suggests that new motorcycle sales decreased by 42% and that means there may have been fewer novice riders on the road.  The article also suggests that publicity about deaths had heightened the awareness of both motorcyclists and motorists.

What do you think?