The state recorded an all-time high of 183 motorcycle fatalities in 2007, up from 61 in 1997. The 200 percent increase in motorcycle deaths outpaced the national increase of 140 percent for the same period.

State officials attributed the increase in part to mild weather, which allows for extended riding seasons, and a 17 percent increase in motorcycle registrations.

Motorcycles represent less than 2 percent of all registered vehicles in North Carolina, but they account for nearly 12 percent of all traffic fatalities, according to the state Division of Motor Vehicles. More than 500,000 people in the state are licensed to drive motorcycles or have motorcycle learner's permits.

The state drew attention to the numbers as Gov. Mike Easley proclaimed this week as "Motorcycle Safety Awareness Week." The state has been trying to curb the rise in motorcycle deaths and head injuries.

As of Jan. 1, North Carolina began requiring every motorcycle rider to wear a helmet that meets federal safety standards. Such helmets have a hard shell, a thick foam liner and a chin strap.