Counties With the Most Motorcycle Fatalities in Oregon
Oregon possesses a landscape suitable for motorcyclists; however, along with the freedom and thrill of riding comes inherent risks that often manifest in tragic accidents. While historical data indicates a rising trend in motorcycle fatalities throughout Oregon, the year 2023 stands out due to a reduction in these tragic incidents.
In 2023, reported fatalities totaled 64, a significant decrease from the 98 recorded in 2022. Previous years also saw higher numbers, with 86 fatalities in 2021 and 69 in 2020. [1] [2]
Below is a compilation of the five Oregon counties that reported the highest motorcycle fatalities from 2020 to 2023.
1. Multnomah County Leads in Motorcycle Fatalities
Multnomah County consistently ranks as the county with the highest number of motorcycle fatalities in Oregon. Despite a statewide decline in 2023, Multnomah County recorded 11 motorcycle fatalities. [1] The statistics show 19 deaths in 2022, with 11 fatalities reported in both 2021 and 2020. [3]
In response to the alarming trends surrounding motorcycle accidents in Multnomah County, the county has adopted the Vision Zero initiative. It is aimed at eliminating all traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries across the state. Action is needed to change this trend, especially in Portland, where the majority of motorcycle incidents occur. [4]
2. Rising Motorcycle Fatalities Increase Safety Concerns in Marion County
Marion County is Oregon’s fifth most populated county, located in the Willamette Valley region. [5] With a growing population and a network of roads that support commuting and recreational activities, Marion County sees its share of traffic incidents, including motorcycle accidents.
The County recorded 6 motorcycle fatalities in 2023, maintaining the same number as in the previous year. [1] In 2022, the county experienced a total of 89 motorcycle crashes, leading to 6 tragic losses of life. Fatalities peaked in 2021 with 13 deaths, while 2020 had a notably lower count of just 3. [3]
Rural roads, urban traffic, and scenic byways in Marion County present challenges for motorcycle drivers.
3. Fatal Motorcycle Crashes in Clackamas County
Unfortunately, motorcycle crashes are common in Oregon, and Clackamas County is no exception.
In 2023, Clackamas County reported 4 motorcycle fatalities, marking a notable decline from 12 fatalities in 2022. [1] This downward trend is encouraging when viewed in the context of previous years; there were 7 motorcycle deaths in 2021 and 5 in 2020. [2]
Common causes and contributing factors of motorcycle crashes in Clackamas County include:
- speeding,
- reckless driving,
- poor road conditions,
- vehicle visibility,
- missing stop signs,
- and impaired driving.
Clackamas County’s “Drive to Zero” initiative minimizes injuries and fatalities on their roadways. They aim to eliminate fatal and serious injury collisions by 2035. If successful, achieving this objective could result in saving 32 lives and preventing 250 serious injuries annually in Clackamas County. [6]
4. Lane County Ranks Fourth in Motorcycle Fatalities from 2020 to 2023
Lane County experiences a disproportionate number of fatalities compared to other counties in Oregon. In 2023, the latest data indicates that there were just 3 motorcycle fatalities reported in the county. [1] This shows a decline from previous years, with 9 motorcyclist deaths in 2022, and 6 fatalities each in 2021 and 2020. [3]
High-risk behaviors such as speeding, impaired driving, and distractions behind the wheel remain the primary contributors to traffic fatalities.
In response to this, the Central Lane Metropolitan Planning Organization (CLMPO) and Lane County have joined forces to develop an innovative initiative known as The Safe Lane.
This program aims to decrease fatal and serious accidents in the region by emphasizing education, community outreach, and additional enforcement strategies. [7]
5. Motorcycle Deaths in Jackson County
Jackson County has also seen its share of motorcycle accident fatalities in recent years. In 2023, the county reported 4 motorcycle fatalities, mirroring the trend seen in prior years, which included 6 deaths in both 2022 and 2021, along with another 4 in 2020. [1], [3]
Motorcycle fatal accidents in Jackson County, like many regions, are influenced by a multitude of factors that contribute to the increasing number of fatalities on the roads.
One of the primary contributors is the lack of motorcycle helmet usage; despite laws mandating helmet wear, many motorcycle riders still choose to ride without proper head protection, leading to more severe motorcycle injuries and a higher likelihood of a fatality in the event of an accident.
Apart from the above counties, Douglas County, Washington County, Linn County, Tillamook County, and Clatsop County also share a significant percentage of motorcycle fatalities in Oregon.
If you have lost a loved one due to a motorcycle accident, contact Goldberg & Loren’s wrongful death attorneys in Oregon for legal representation today.
Sources:
[1] 2023 Resident Deaths, Number of Deaths (All Manners). (n.d.). Oregon Health Authority Center for Health Statistics. https://visual-data.dhsoha.state.or.us/t/OHA/views/Oregondeathsfromexternalinjuries/DemogDash?
[2] Injury Facts. (n.d.). NSC. https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/motorcycles/data-details/
[3] Oregon Department of Transportation : Crash Data Viewer : Data & Maps : State of Oregon. (n.d.). Crash Data Viewer : Oregon Department of Transportation. https://www.oregon.gov/odot/data/pages/crash-data-viewer.aspx
[4] Portland Vision Zero Action Plan Update 2023-25. (2024, December 6). Portland.gov. https://www.portland.gov/transportation/vision-zero/portland-vision-zero-action-plan-update-2023-25
[5] Oregon Counties by Population. (n.d.). https://www.oregon-demographics.com/counties_by_population
[6] Drive to Zero | Clackamas County. (n.d.). https://www.clackamas.us/drivetozero
[7] Safe Lane Transportation Coalition. (n.d.). Safe Lane Transportation Coalition. https://safelanecoalition.org/
