
Austria is on track for a record low in road fatalities in 2024, yet motorcycle-related deaths remain alarmingly high, accounting for about 25% of all road deaths, according to the Austrian Automobile, Motorcycle and Touring Club (ÖAMTC). By November 3, 78 motorcyclists had lost their lives in road accidents, a notable increase from last year’s 20%. A staggering 96% of the victims were male, with an average age of 47.
Self-Caused Accidents Dominate Fatalities
Most of the fatal motorcycle accidents involved self-caused errors, with motorcyclists responsible for approximately four out of five deadly incidents. “The most common causes include inappropriate speed, failed overtaking maneuvers, and failure to yield,” stated ÖAMTC traffic expert David Nosé. Data from the Ministry of the Interior and ÖAMTC indicate that 36% of these incidents were single-vehicle crashes, while 39% were collisions, particularly head-on crashes, where the rider was mostly at fault. However, at intersections, motorcyclists are often overlooked by turning drivers, increasing the risk of accidents.
Rise in Single-Vehicle and Overtaking Accidents
Though motorcycle accidents at intersections have declined by 20% over the past two decades, single-vehicle accidents have risen by 40%, and accidents during overtaking maneuvers have more than doubled, based on Statistics Austria data. Returning bikers and those with limited experience are particularly vulnerable.
The overall trend shows a slight decrease in motorcycle deaths over the years. In 2000, 112 motorcyclists were killed—a high over the past three decades—compared to 82 last year. However, the share of motorcycle fatalities among total road deaths has significantly increased, rising from 7% in 1995 to over 20% last year. So far this year, more than one in four road fatalities involved a motorcyclist.
ÖAMTC attributes part of these trends to the growing number of motorcycles on the road but emphasizes the need for improved safety education, training, enforcement, and safer infrastructure for motorcyclists.