According to statistical evidence, the number of people involved in motorcycle accidents where a fatality occurred has been on an upswing in the state of Montana. There were ten more deaths reported in 2007 than there were in 2006. This is triple the number from 2003. In all, 36 people died as a result of motorcycle wrecks in 2007 in the state of Montana.

Reasons

While there are many reasons why the number of people killed has gone up, officials point to Montana's lack of a helmet law (though people under the age of 18 must wear a helmet), and an increase in the number of people riding motorcycles in the state. Montana is one of 27 states that does not require adults to wear helmets, and motorcycle use has increased faster than any other type of transportation. Also, Montana quit requiring annual motorcycle registration in 2005, so owners only have to register their bikes once. According to officials, the numbers of owners was already increasing rapidly.

State Rep. Betsy Hands tried to introduce a bill requiring a helmet law, but the bill was killed in committee. Motorcyclists from around the country rallied to the anti-helmet lobby's cause, sending letters to the Legislature to reject the bill. Hands has a personal reason for introducing the bill since her brother suffered a brain injury after being involved in a motorcycle accident. However, many people believe that it is up to each individual to decide if they want to wear a helmet, not the government.

According to the latest motorcycle fatality statistics released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 4,810 deaths across the country in 2006.

If you have lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, please contact an experienced injury lawyer in your area.