(Bismarck, ND) — State troopers are tracking a sharp increase in the number of fatal motorcycle crashes in North Dakota.
According to North Dakota Highway Patrol data, 50-percent of fatal motorcycle crashes involved motorists driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In addition, North Dakota posts some of the lowest rates of helmet use among the 50 states, which contribute to the fatalities.
Officials also say the state’s relatively short motorcycle-riding season means bikers can go for as much as six months before they hit the road once things thaw out in the spring.
