If you ride a motorcycle in Phoenix, one big question is: what are the odds of crashing in any given year? While it is impossible to predict exactly who will crash and when, recent data provides us with some clues. Across Arizona, the risk to motorcyclists has been rising, and Phoenix (in Maricopa County) carries a large share of that risk.
What the Stats Show for Phoenix
In 2024, there were 3,036 motorcycle‑involved crashes reported across the state by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). At the end of that year, there were about 279,697 registered motorcycles in Arizona. That works out to roughly one crash per 100 registered motorcycles each year.
A crash rate like this may seem modest, but each crash carries the potential for serious injury or even death, especially around a busy city like Phoenix. Because a large portion of registered bikes and crashes occur in Maricopa County, where Phoenix is located, the statewide rate provides a rough estimate of what riders in Phoenix might face.
Why Phoenix and Maricopa County Show High Crash Numbers
There are several reasons why Phoenix and the surrounding county see many motorcycle accidents. First, there are simply a large number of motorcycles on the road. As of 2024, nearly 280,000 bikes were registered statewide, and many of those are in Maricopa County.
Second, riding a motorcycle in dense urban traffic increases risk. Phoenix has heavy traffic, numerous intersections, frequent lane changes, and a high volume of vehicles. These are all conditions that increase the likelihood of crashes. Motorcycles are small and less protected than cars, so even a minor collision can be dangerous for the rider.
Third, many crashes in Phoenix involve other vehicles, often when drivers fail to see motorcycles or misjudge distance or speed. Because of this, motorcycles end up over‑represented in crash and fatality statistics compared to their share of vehicles on the road.
All these factors combine to make Phoenix one of the more dangerous areas for motorcyclists in Arizona.
How Often Crashes Turn Serious in Phoenix
Not every crash ends with a minor scratch. Motorcycle crashes are far more likely to result in serious injury or death compared to crashes involving cars.
In Maricopa County alone, there were 1,960 motorcycle crashes in 2024, which was more than half of all the state’s motorcycle accidents. Of those, a significant share (1,523) resulted in injuries, and 123 of them were fatal. That means over half of all fatal motorcycle crashes in Arizona that year were in Maricopa County.
What that means is that while a crash might be unlikely for any given rider, the consequences can be severe, and that makes every ride risky.
Why the 1% Estimate Probably Undercounts Real Risk
The estimate of approximately one crash per 100 registered riders per year provides a helpful baseline. Still, it likely underestimates the true risk for many motorcyclists, especially those who are frequent riders.
One reason is that the statistic only counts registered motorcycles, not the total mileage each one is ridden. Some bikes might sit in garages most of the year, while others rack up thousands of miles. A rider who spends many hours each week on a motorcycle clearly has a higher crash risk than someone who rides rarely.
Also, not every crash is reported. Minor accidents, single-vehicle mishaps, or collisions involving uninsured or unregistered riders may sometimes go unreported. Many serious crashes occur in dense traffic, at night, or in situations that can complicate tracking and reporting.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Crashes Around Phoenix
Understanding what usually leads to crashes can help riders stay safer.
In Arizona (and in Phoenix), some of the most frequent factors in motorcycle collisions include:
- Collisions with other vehicles, often due to cars turning left or changing lanes without noticing a motorcycle
- Speeding, either by the bike or another vehicle involved in the crash
- Impaired driving, such as alcohol or drug use
- Poor visibility or failure to notice motorcycles, especially at night or in heavy traffic
- Lane maneuvers, sudden braking, or abrupt turns
Because these factors often stem from the behavior of other drivers rather than just the rider’s, even careful motorcyclists can end up in serious accidents.
Contact Our Phoenix Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at KRLG Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Motorcycling in Phoenix can offer freedom, convenience, and an enjoyable way to get around. But it also carries real and sometimes severe risks that some riders may not be aware of.
If you need legal help after a crash, call our Phoenix motorcycle accident lawyers at KRLG Injury Lawyers for a free consultation. You could be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other losses from the wreck. We work on a contingency fee basis, so there is no upfront cost for our services, and you’ll pay nothing unless we win your case.