The danger zone: Injuries and conditions associated with immediately fatal motorcycle crashes in the state of Michigan

Background Immediately fatal motorcycle crashes have not been well characterized. This study catalogues injuries sustained in fatal motorcycle crashes and assesses the impact of crash conditions on injury patterns. Methods Autopsy records from the office of the medical examiner of Kent County, MI and publicly available traffic reports were queried for information pertaining to motorcyclists declared dead on-scene between January 1, 2007, and December 31, 2016. Results A total of 71 autopsies of on-scene motorcycle crash fatalities were identified. The two most prevalent injuries were traumatic brain injury (TBI) (85%) and rib fractures (79%). The majority of fatalities occurred in daylight hours (54.3%) and in a 55 mph speed limit zone (63.8%). Conclusions This study provides a catalogue of the injuries sustained in immediately fatal motorcycle crashes and the associated conditions. Advocacy efforts that highlight the risks associated with motorcycle riding and that promote safe riding practices are warranted.