New York Is One of the Safest States for Teen Motorcycle Riders

Learning to ride a motorcycle comes with risks, but a new study says New York is one of the safest places in the country for teenage riders. The study found that New York ranks 49th in the nation for motorcycle crashes involving riders between the ages of 15 and 19. Only one state had a lower crash rate.

Crash Rate Is Well Below the National Average

According to the report, New York has 90.69 motorcycle crashes per one million residents ages 15 to 19. That is over 60 percent lower than the national average. Even though New York has about 1.2 million teenagers, the state averages about 109 motorcycle crashes involving young riders each year.

This Is Why New York Ranks So Well

Researchers say several factors may help keep young riders safer in New York. The study took a look at the state's busy road system, stronger traffic enforcement, and large teen population as reasons the crash rate is lower than in many other states.

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Montana Had the Highest Crash Rate

At the other end of the list, Montana ranked as the state with the highest crash rate for young motorcycle riders. Mississippi, New Mexico, Tennessee, and South Carolina rounded out the top five.While no motorcycle crash is considered minor, the study suggests that New York's roads are safer than most states for teenagers who ride motorcycles.