ST. PAUL, Minn. — Minnesota has recorded 37 motorcycle fatalities so far in 2026, a significant increase from the 24 deaths at this point last year, state traffic safety officials said Friday. The Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety projects the pace could lead to about 90 fatalities by year’s end if current trends continue — a level not seen in decades.
Officials, riders call for shared responsibility
Mike Hanson, director of the Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety, and State Sen. Judy Seeberger joined motorcycle riders at the State Capitol to highlight the rising toll and urge action by both motorists and motorcyclists.
“It’s been a particularly deadly [year], and just about every accident that we have seen come across on the news has been preventable,” said Sen. Judy Seeberger.
Hanson said most of the recent fatal crashes involve motorcycles being boxed in or surprised by lane changes, turns or corners. He emphasized that the problem is statewide — roughly half of the fatalities are happening inside metropolitan areas and the other half in Greater Minnesota.
Prevention focus: awareness and rider training
Officials and riders stressed two main prevention strategies: increased caution by motorcyclists and greater awareness by drivers. Hanson and participants at the Capitol event pointed to rider training programs, including courses offered by groups such as the Saint Croix Valley Riders and by the Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety.
Hanson said data is not yet sufficient to pinpoint the cause of the sudden rise. Anecdotally, he reported hearing that some riders have been spending more time on the road recently, citing higher fuel prices as a factor.
- 2026 fatalities so far: 37
- 2025 fatalities at same time: 24
- Projected total if trend continues: about 90
| Metric | Number |
|---|---|
| Motorcycle fatalities (2026 to date) | 37 |
| Motorcycle fatalities (same time 2025) | 24 |
| Projected 2026 total (if trend holds) | ~90 |
For riders, officials reiterated basic safety measures: complete formal training, wear appropriate protective gear, and ride defensively. For drivers, the guidance was to slow down, check blind spots, and "share the road" with motorcyclists.
The rise in fatalities adds urgency to outreach and enforcement efforts across Minnesota as officials work to better understand contributing factors and reduce preventable deaths on the state’s roadways.
