Motorcycle crashes rise during Daytona Bike Week

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — Bike Week 2012 might go in the books as one of the deadliest for motorcycle crashes.

While the event brought thousands of people in and out of Volusia County all week, it also brought an increase in motorcycle crashes.

As many as 10 people died in crashes during the 10-day event that ended on Sunday.

Troopers said 64-year-old Charles Bixler from North Carolina died after 77-year-old Massachusetts resident Barbara Dunn smashed into his bike on Ocean Side Drive. Florida Highway Patrol said Dunn was drunk and she has been charged with DUI manslaughter.

Investigators said 55-year-old William Johnson was killed when he lost control of his bike Saturday on County Road 305 in Seville.

"We haven't had any problems really during the day. It must be, you know, just when things get rowdy at night," said biker Laura Passione.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, 17 crashes were reported on Saturday alone.

FHP tallied at least nine motorcycle deaths on Central Florida roads during 2012 bike week, which is higher than 2011's six reported crashes.

The total number of Bike Week-related accidents has not yet been released.

WFTV