Colorado motorcycle deaths have risen 57% in 10 years

Statewide — May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, and the Colorado Department of Transportation is urging both motorcyclists and drivers of motor vehicles to put safety first. Last year 165 motorcyclists were killed, the highest number ever recorded in Colorado. Since 2015, motorcycle deaths have risen 57%.

Of the 165 motorcyclists were killed in 2024, 73 (44%) were not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. Motorcycle fatalities accounted for nearly one-quarter (24%) of all traffic deaths in the state despite being just 3% of vehicles on the road. So far in 2025, motorcycle deaths are down 20% compared to the same time period in 2024.

"Last year's record number of motorcycle deaths is a call to action for both Colorado drivers of passenger vehicles and motorcyclists alike," said CDOT’s Office of Transportation Safety Director Darrell Lingk. "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."

Helmets remain the primary countermeasure to reduce serious injury and motorcycle fatalities. NHTSA data estimates that helmets saved 1,872 motorcyclists’ lives in 2017, and that 749 more lives could have been saved if all motorcyclists had worn their helmets.

To enhance the safety of motorcyclists, drivers of cars and trucks need to use caution around motorcycles. Intersections are particularly dangerous since drivers can fail to see oncoming motorcycles. Both drivers and riders should always observe all traffic laws and always obey the speed limit, always drive and ride sober and avoid distractions.

Data from NHTSA shows that speed and alcohol are large contributing factors in motorcycle crashes. 20% of Colorado’s motorcycle fatalities in 2024 involved impairment. The negative impact of alcohol and drugs, including certain prescribed medications, on judgment, coordination and alertness are well-documented, posing significant risks to motorcycle riders.

"Even in a state of full alertness, it’s impossible to predict the actions of other vehicles or pedestrians,” said Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “This is why it’s imperative to ride sober, avoid distractions, stay focused and abide by all traffic laws.”

On May 12, CDOT, Colorado State Patrol and and victims of families involved in motorcycle crashes will gather for a press conference to address the rise in motorcycle fatalities and how state agencies are joining forces to reduce traffic deaths in Colorado. On the same day, the Click It or Ticket statewide seat belt enforcement period will begin to encourage Coloradans to buckle up.

Crash Not Accident

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