The roads of Colorado have borne witness to a stark rise in motorcycle fatalities, with a 57% increase over the past decade, as reported by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). In an announcement made today, CDOT highlighted the concerning numbers, pointing out that 165 motorcyclists lost their lives in 2024, the highest ever recorded in the state. Notably, nearly half of those killed were not wearing helmets at the time of the accidents, according to CDOT.
As May and Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month roll around, CDOT is taking the opportunity to earnestly remind motorists and motorcyclists alike to prioritize safety. The message is clear: vigilance and protective gear are non-negotiable on the roads. Darrell Lingk, CDOT’s Office of Transportation Safety Director, stressed the imperative, "We must look out for one another on our roadways. And to all of our motorcycle riders, wear a helmet and protective gear — it is the number one way to prevent serious injury or death in a crash," he said, as per CDOT.
There's a slice of encouraging news amidst the grim report; early numbers for 2025 suggest a 20% decrease in motorcycle deaths when compared to the same period in 2024. This is a moment to cautiously note the progress, but it also serves as a reminder that the journey to improved road safety is a marathon, not a sprint. Helmets are repeatedly underscored by agencies such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) as a vital tool in reducing the risk of fatal outcomes in motorcycle accidents.
However, all road users have a part to play. Statistics show intersections as high-risk zones, and awareness must therefore be amplified in these areas. Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol, emphasized the role of sobriety and focus when he stated, "Even in a state of full alertness, it’s impossible to predict the actions of other vehicles or pedestrians," in an interview obtained by CDOT. "This is why it’s imperative to ride sober, avoid distractions, stay focused and abide by all traffic laws."
