57 motorcyclists died on OPP-patrolled roads in 2024

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Last year marks the highest number of motorcyclist deaths OPP-patrolled roads in two decades.

Ontario Provincial Police say the historic 57 motorcyclist deaths on OPP-patrolled roads in 2024 were due to excessive speed, losing control, failing to yield the right of way, improper passing and driver inattention.

With Motorcycle Safety Awareness Week getting underway, the OPP is urging motorcyclists and drivers to avoid the behaviours and actions that caused or contributed to those deaths.

“2024 was a tragic reminder of what happens when motorcyclists and motorists drive aggressively, are not paying full attention, or engage in careless behaviours when sharing our highways and roads,” OPP Commisssioner Thomas Carrique said.

“Motorcycle season commands our absolute safest driving practices, heightened vigilance and adherence to traffic laws that are designed to keep all road users safe – especially vulnerable motorcyclists and their passengers,” he said.

The OPP says the 18 riders who were not at fault in the collisions that claimed their lives are a stark reminder that even the safest of motorcyclists are vulnerable to motorists who fail to share the road safely with them.

Riders between 25-34 years of age accounted for the highest number of motorcyclist deaths (15) on OPP-patrolled roads in 2024, followed by riders in the 65-74 age group (12).

“With the longer days and warmer weather, there will be more motorcycles on Ontario streets and highways,” Ontario Solicitor General Michael Kerzner said in a statement. “Last year’s devastating losses serve as a stark reminder to motorists and motorcyclists alike – stay alert and follow the rules of the road to create a safe environment for everyone.”

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Week runs from May 1-7.

“Whether you drive a car, a commercial vehicle, or ride a motorcycle, we all share the responsibility to follow traffic rules and ensure our roads are safe for everyone,” Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria said in a statement.

“Our government will continue to combat aggressive and unsafe driving by enforcing mandatory license suspensions for stunt driving and a zero-tolerance policy for impaired driving,” he said. “Reckless drivers who endanger lives must face the full consequences of their actions.”