Every year, Myrtle Beach draws thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts and others who come to celebrate Harley Week. Wondering what’s in store for Myrtle Beach Harley Week 2020, especially in light of COVID-19? This quick guide will bring you up to speed as we take a look at Harley Week by the numbers.
Harley Week in Myrtle Beach
During Harley Week, Myrtle Beach is home to some of the biggest bike rallies in the country, such as the Myrtle Beach Bike Week and the Black Bike Week. The events feature live music, parties, motorcycle racing, and exhibitions. This year’s event also marks the 81st anniversary of Myrtle Beach Bike Week.
Bike Week in the Coronavirus Pandemic of 2020
Bike Week in Myrtle Beach is usually held around Memorial Day weekend. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s event has been postponed.
Myrtle Beach Bike Week 2020 is currently scheduled for July 13 – 19, 2020. However, these dates may change as the situation evolves.
Bike Rally Attendee Numbers
Some key facts about Harley Week:
- Harley Week brings 350,000 to 400,000 visitors to Myrtle Beach every year.
- In 2017, Harley Week attendance grew by an estimated 15 to 20 percent.
- In 2018, attendance went up by 20 to 25 percent compared to the previous year.
- Due to the increase in crime, there are often hundreds of police patrolling the event. In recent years, the event has had over 800 officers on duty. They come from all over the state and across the country.
Crime Statistics During Bike Week
Unfortunately, this annual event leads to a spike in local crime levels in Myrtle Beach. A look at the data reveals:
- In 2017, officers issued 160 tickets and 175 warnings in Myrtle Beach during Harley Week.
- In 2018, these numbers rose to 226 tickets and 211 warnings. This represents a 41 percent increase in tickets issued and a 20 percent increase in warnings.
- There was also a slight increase in calls for police service. In 2017, there were 921 calls to the police during Harley Week, and 929 calls in 2018.
- There was a slight decrease in the number of arrests made. In 2017, there were 70 arrests during Harley Week. In 2018, this number decreased to 66 arrests.
Motorcycle Safety Tips
While you are enjoying the sights and sounds of riding your motorcycle around Myrtle Beach, safety needs to be your No. 1 priority. Here are eight tips for staying safe during Bike Week:
- Keep your skills sharp through practice and education.
- Always wear a helmet.
- Wear protective gear and clothing.
- Maintain a safe following distance.
- Avoid riding during bad weather.
- Invest in anti-lock brakes for your bike.
- Watch closely for hazards in the road.
- Never drink and ride
Legal Help for People Hurt During Biker Rallies
As Myrtle Beach locals know all too well, Bike Week, unfortunately, brings a higher level of crime than normal. Residents might see an increased number of traffic accidents caused by drunk driving, as well as assaults due to intoxication.
If you are injured by a negligent motorist, biker, or someone else, it’s important to know that you do have legal recourse. Jebaily Law Firm focuses on helping injured people take legal action and seek financial compensation. We’ve been fighting on behalf of injured people for over 50 years.
To learn more about your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation.
Jebaily Law Firm, is one of South Carolina’s long-established and well-respected legal practices. Located in Florence, S.C., we are trial lawyers focused on plaintiff litigation in personal injury, workers’ compensation, social security disability, and criminal defense. Established in 1969, we have more than 100 years of combined legal experience in protecting the rights of clients and advocating for the safety and well-being of South Carolina citizens.
