Motorcycle crashes remain a serious concern in Pennsylvania and here in Pittsburgh. PennDOT reports show a small drop in crashes in 2024, but risks still linger. If you ride in Allegheny County, this data matters. If you get hurt, a knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney Pittsburgh rider can trust is essential.
​Pennsylvania-Wide Data You Should See
PennDOT’s 2024 Crash Facts & Statistics report offers a full picture:
- Motorcycle crashes: 3,298 (2024), down from 3,422 (2023).
- Fatal injury crashes: 218 (2024), down from 233 (2023).
- Helmet status (2024 crashes):
- Wore helmets: 2,130 riders, 111 died
- No helmets: 1,328, 100 diedÂ
What this shows: crashes are slightly fewer, but nearly 9 riders are in a crash every day in Pennsylvania. Head injuries remain deadly. A DOT-approved helmet can reduce risk.
​Pittsburgh & Allegheny County: Local Factors
Allegheny County, which includes Pittsburgh, ranks second in the state for motorcycle deaths each year, behind only Philadelphia.
The county tracks all crashes from 2004–2024, with details on location, severity, and vehicle types.
Local hazards include:
- Bridges with steel grates and expansion joints
- Hilly terrain with blind curves
- Busy intersections on Liberty Bridge, Fort Pitt ramps, Grant Street
- Potholes from winter damage, especially in Squirrel Hill and Oakland
Knowing where crashes cluster can help riders avoid trouble zones.
​​Pennsylvania Motorcycle Laws
You must wear a DOT-approved helmet unless you are:
- Over 21 and have a motorcycle license for 2+ years or completed a PennDOT-approved safety course
- Learner permit holders must wear helmets
You must also wear eye protection unless you have a full windshield.
Safety training
PennDOT runs the Motorcycle Safety Program (PAMSP) for all skill levels, free of charge. Completing the course can replace the 2-year license requirement for helmet exemption.
​Why This Data Matters for Your Claim
Knowing crash patterns and helmet stats helps build a strong case. A Pittsburgh motorcycle accident lawyer can use these facts to:
- Show how bridge design, potholes, or blind curves played a role
- Prove helmet use or lack thereof based on helmet status trends
- Bring in accident reconstruction experts when needed
- Counter insurance claims that try to shift blame or minimize injuries
​Common Motorcycle Injuries in Pittsburgh
Riders often face serious injuries:
- Traumatic brain and spinal injuries
- Broken bones and compound fractures
- Severe road rash or lacerations
- Internal injuries
These injuries lead to:
- High medical costs
- Lost income
- Rehab and therapy
- Long-term care
A motorcycle injury lawyer Pittsburgh can fight for compensation for all losses, even future care and pain and suffering.
​What to Do After a Motorcycle Crash
- Call 911 and seek medical care.
- Get a police report incident number.
- Take photos of the scene, bike damage, road conditions.
- Get contact info from witnesses.
- Don’t give recorded statements to insurers before talking to a lawyer.
- Contact a motorcycle accident attorney in Pittsburgh right away for guidance.
​​Why Local Legal Help Matters
Insurance companies may doubt severity or shift blame onto riders. A local Pittsburgh motorcycle crash lawyer knows:
- Dangerous road sections to investigate
- Where to get rush-hour bridge or traffic cam footage
- Reliable local accident reconstruction and medical experts
That local insight can protect your rights and your claim.
​Get the Help You Need
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash in Pittsburgh or Allegheny County, time matters. You need legal help from someone who understands local roads. Don’t wait to protect your rights.Visit our motorcycle accident page to learn how we can help. Then contact Shenderovich, Shenderovich & Fishman, P.C. today for a free consultation. We will review your case, explain your options, and fight to recover fair compensation. You pay nothing unless we win. Your recovery starts with a call.
