Texas Sees Surge in Fatal Motorcycle Crashes at Intersections

DALLAS, Texas (TXAN 24) — A new analysis of federal traffic data shows a sharp rise in deadly motorcycle crashes at intersections across Texas, underscoring growing safety concerns for riders statewide.

According to data compiled from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Fatality Analysis Reporting System and Federal Highway Administration statistics, Texas recorded 213 fatal motorcycle intersection crashes in 2023. That marks an 86.8% increase from 114 crashes in 2019—an additional 99 deaths over five years.

On average, Texas sees about 161 fatal motorcycle crashes at intersections annually, with a rate of 47.44 deaths per 100,000 registered motorcycles. That places the state third nationwide for intersection-related motorcycle fatalities, behind Mississippi and Florida.

Experts often point to a combination of factors driving intersection crashes, including visibility issues, left-turn conflicts with passenger vehicles, and failure to yield. Urban growth and increasing motorcycle registrations may also contribute to the upward trend.

Other high-ranking states include South Carolina and Nevada, though Texas remains among the most concerning due to its size and volume of incidents.

Safety officials continue to emphasize defensive riding, increased driver awareness, and intersection-focused enforcement as key steps to reducing fatalities.