Organ donations rise during major motorcycle rallies due to crashes, study says

A recent study reveals that organ donations and transplantations increase during major motorcycle rallies in the US, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced safety measures. Researchers examined over 10,000 organ donations and 35,000 transplantations from 2005 to 2021 and found a significant rise in both organ donors and transplant recipients in areas hosting motorcycle rallies. Specifically, there was a 21% increase in organ donors and a 26% rise in transplant recipients per day during rallies, compared to the four weeks before and after the events. Conversely, nearby areas without rallies saw an 11% decrease in organ donors and a 10% drop in transplant recipients.

Dr. David Cron, the study’s lead author and a clinical fellow at Massachusetts General Hospital, emphasizes the need to address preventable deaths and enhance public and traffic safety during these large events. The study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, examined seven major US motorcycle rallies, including the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, Daytona Bike Week, Laconia Motorcycle Week, Myrtle Beach Bike Week, Atlantic Beach Bikefest, Republic of Texas Biker Rally, and Bikes, Blues & BBQ. These events draw 200,000 to 500,000 attendees annually.

The research highlights that motorcycle rallies often lead to a surge in trauma cases at local hospitals. Bikers are 29 times more likely to die in crashes per mile traveled compared to those in passenger vehicles, and those without helmets are three times more likely to become organ donors than helmeted riders. Head injuries, a common result of motorcycle crashes, are a leading cause of brain death, which often leads to organ donation.

Cron notes that reduced helmet laws have contributed to more fatal crashes over the years. Increasing public awareness about organ donation is crucial, he says. Education and outreach can improve public knowledge about registering as an organ donor and living donation options.

For those involved in the transplant process, including critical care teams and organ procurement organizations, recognizing these events as times of increased organ donor availability is essential. This awareness can help optimize processes and potentially save more lives.

The Association of Organ Procurement Organizations underscores that only 1% of people who die in the US annually are medically eligible to donate organs. They commend the study for highlighting the need for better public safety and organ donation awareness at motorcycle rallies.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, held every August, is the largest and most popular in the country. Daniel Ainslie, Sturgis’s city manager, explains that rally-goers spend significant time on highways, increasing their accident risk. To promote safer riding, the South Dakota Office of Highway Safety provides tips such as reviewing riding maps, handling bikes in varying conditions, and practicing safe driving.

The study also notes that 42% of motorcycle crashes in 2019 involved alcohol. To mitigate this risk, Sturgis offers bus services from local motels and campgrounds, allowing attendees to enjoy downtown without endangering themselves or others while returning to their accommodations.