Motorcyclists in Latin America: Current Situation, Lessons Learned and Recommended Best Practices for the Protection of its Users. 2nd Edition

Motorcyclists represent the primary challenge for road safety in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), where fatalities among this group have increased by 98% between 2010 and 2024, despite an overall 2% reduction in total road traffic deaths. The rapid growth of motorcycles as an affordable and efficient mode of transport, particularly for work-related purposeshas amplified both mobility opportunities and exposure to risk. This publication, building upon the Inter-American Development Banks 2022 report Motorcycles in Latin America: Current and Recommended Best Practices for the Protection of Its Users, presents an updated and comprehensive assessment of motorcyclist safety across the region.

The report integrates new data and original research conducted by the IDB, providing updated analysis on powered two-wheeler fleet growth, fatality trends, risk factors, and regulatory frameworks across countries and subregions. The publication adopts a holistic approach structured in four sections: (i) analysis of trends and patterns in motorcyclist fatalities, (ii) identification of key behavioral, infrastructural, and systemic risk factors, (iii) review of regulatory frameworks and best practices from governments, NGOs, and the private sector, and (iv) actionable recommendations to guide evidence-based policymaking.

Aligned with the Decade of Action for Road Safety 20212030, the Sustainable Development Goals, and the Marrakech Declaration (2025), the publication underscores the urgency of coordinated, multisectoral efforts to reduce fatalities. Ultimately, this document aims to equip policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders with the evidence and tools needed to improve motorcyclist safety and advance safer, more sustainable mobility systems in Latin America and the Caribbean.