State police are offering tips to motorcyclists about how to be safe during Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says more than 5,500 motorcyclists were killed in crashes in the U.S. in 2020.

Officials say fatalities rose 11% from the year before.

The NHTSA adds that in 2020, motorcyclists were 28 times more likely to die in a crash than passengers riding in cars.

The U.S. Department Of Transportation says helmet use in 2020 was significantly higher in states that require them.

Connecticut officials say helmets are required for motorcycle riders under 18 or with a learner's permit.