Idaho has seen a jump in the number of motorcycle fatalities compared to a year ago.
According to estimates by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, preliminary data show motorcycle fatalities in the Gem State totaled 13 by the end of July 2012, compared to six at the same time last year. Out of the 13 fatalities in Idaho so far, six occurred during July alone.
Officials with the Idaho STAR Motorcycle Safety Program say about 70 percent of the fatal motorcycle crashes in Idaho between 2009 and 2011 were associated with rider error, though drivers are also involved in a significant number of fatal crashes. About 500 to 600 crashes are reported every year in Idaho.
Nationwide, total traffic deaths have increased by 13.5 percent during the first quarter of 2012.
